![]() ![]() The lymphatic system has several roles which include fat transport and absorption, maintaining fluid balance, and production of immune cells. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, one of many systems that have a specific function in the body like the respiratory system or the nervous system. The word occipital means the area at the lower part of the back of the head at the base of the skull. Rarely does swelling of the lymph nodes indicate anything more serious, but can be an indirect consequence of conditions like skin cancer or autoimmune diseases. However, these infections are also easily dealt with by using corticosteroid topical treatments such as creams and lotions or by antibiotics. ![]() These are all contagious infections and easily spread from person to person. Infections that cause them to swell are very common, for example, throat infections (such as strep throat) or infections of the scalp such as head lice, ringwork, and impetigo. So they swell, not because they themselves are infected but because they are carrying out their role of dealing with infection. So as the occipital lymph nodes are located at the base of the skull, any infection is likely to have occurred in a nearby region such as the throat or skull. For more details, see Lymphoma of the Skin.(Consider rephrasing this sentence) The lymph nodes contain white blood cells that form part of the immune system as these white blood (lymphocytes) will attack and neutralize pathogens (harmful substances) such as bacteria and viruses to help prevent them from causing disease within the body. The area in which the lymph nodes are swollen is most likely to be where the infection has occurred. They often appear as itchy, red or purple lumps or bumps under the skin. Lymphomas of the skin may be seen or felt. This can cause problems such as double vision, facial numbness, and trouble speaking. Other types of lymphoma can spread to the area around the brain and spinal cord. Lymphomas of the brain, called primary brain lymphomas, can cause headache, trouble thinking, weakness in parts of the body, personality changes, and sometimes seizures. Symptoms from lymphoma affecting the brain It can be life-threatening and must be treated right away. It can also cause trouble breathing and a change in consciousness if it affects the brain. This can lead to swelling (and sometimes a bluish-red color) in the head, arms, and upper chest. Lymphomas in this area may push on the SVC, which can cause the blood to back up in the veins. It passes near the thymus and lymph nodes inside the chest. The superior vena cava (SVC) is the large vein that carries blood from the head and arms back to the heart. When lymphoma starts in the thymus or lymph nodes in the chest, it may press on the nearby trachea (windpipe), which can cause coughing, trouble breathing, or a feeling of chest pain or pressure. Lymphomas in the stomach or intestines can cause abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. This could be from lymph nodes or organs such as the spleen or liver enlarging, but it can also be caused by the build-up of large amounts of fluid.Īn enlarged spleen might press on the stomach, which can cause a loss of appetite and feeling full after only a small meal. Lymphomas that start or grow in the abdomen (belly) can cause swelling or pain in the abdomen. Lymph nodes that grow in reaction to infection are called reactive nodes or hyperplastic nodes and are often tender to the touch. These are usually not painful.Īlthough enlarged lymph nodes are a common symptom of lymphoma, they are much more often caused by infections. Enlarged lymph nodes close to the surface of the body (such as on the sides of the neck, in the groin or underarm areas, or above the collar bone), may be seen or felt as lumps under the skin. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause lymph nodes to become enlarged.
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