Toothache causes swollen lymph nodes

Toothache is a relatively common symptom. Common dental diseases such as periodontitis, gingivitis, and tooth decay can all cause toothache symptoms. In addition, if toothache is not treated and resolved in a timely manner, it will cause lymph node enlargement to a certain extent, which will have a more serious impact on human health. So, how to treat swollen lymph nodes caused by toothache? Let me introduce it to you below!

1. Introduction to lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are important immune organs in the human body. A normal person has about 500-600 lymph nodes. Each group of lymph nodes collects lymph from the corresponding drainage area. If the drainage area is stimulated by inflammation, tumors or other pathophysiological factors, lymph nodes may swell. The head and neck have rich lymphatic drainage, and the neck itself has many lymph nodes. Under pathological and physiological conditions, cervical lymph nodes may swell.

There are many causes of swollen lymph nodes in the neck, the most common ones are inflammatory swelling, tumor swelling, reactive hyperplasia and histiocytic hyperplasia.

2. Treatment of swollen lymph nodes

There are many causes of swollen lymph nodes in the neck, so different treatment plans should be selected according to the different causes. If it is chronic lymphadenitis, antibiotic treatment or clinical follow-up will be sufficient. If it is lymph node tuberculosis, regular anti-tuberculosis treatment must be given. If it is caused by a tumor, the primary tumor must be treated to be effective.

After a clear diagnosis, if the lymph node enlargement is caused by an infectious disease, anti-infection treatment is given; if the disease is caused by an immune response, glucocorticoid treatment is given; if the lymph node enlargement is caused by a malignant tumor, chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be used. For some cases of lymph node enlargement with unclear causes, follow-up observation and symptomatic treatment are recommended.

3. Notes

If the patient's fever exceeds 38.3℃, do not insist on lowering the temperature. If the infection is bacterial or viral, fever must be tolerated and may aid recovery. If the patient is not suitable for antipyretics, gentle sponge baths or cooling blankets can also be used to reduce temperature.

It is best to obtain blood for complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and blood culture. Prepare a plan for other diagnostic tests, such as a chest X-ray, liver or spleen scan, lymph node biopsy, or lymphangiography. If testing shows an infection, consult the hospital policy regarding infection control.