Lymph nodes on our body perform an important function - they are the body's natural filters and protect it from harmful substances that enter our blood from the environment. They carry the lymph containing these substances along with it to the organs that cleanse it. If the protection does not work, inflammation begins inside the lymph node. At this moment, the gland begins to hurt, becomes covered with a swollen membrane, significantly increases in size and cannot perform its main function. Therefore, the discovery of enlarged lymph nodes in one of the areas of the body is a serious reason to visit a doctor.
Regional (submandibular, cervical, supraclavicular and subclavian) lymph nodes located in close proximity to the site of inflammation are called regional nodes. Regional lymph nodes are an important part of the body's immune system. They are located directly next to the source of infection and increase in response to the emergence of an infectious process. Regional nodes quickly respond to incipient inflammation and provide its protection. The regression of these nodes occurs very slowly, so they are not visible after recovery. Some of the lymph nodes are very noticeable and appear as lumps or lumps under the skin in the neck, submandibular area and even in the chest. Although such phenomena are observed quite rarely, they are believed to be associated only with the inflammatory process and decrease with recovery. Inflamed lymph nodes can vary in size, shape and color and may be painful to touch. But in general, if you notice that a small swelling has appeared on the skin near the site of infection, then this is probably a regional lymph node - a witness to your health or illness. These changes are a sign that the body is fighting an infectious process, and this applies not only to the lymph nodes, but also to other organs. Thus, lymphatic changes that occur during infections can be an important indicator of the patient's condition and overall health. An increase in lymphocytes in the body can cause lymphadenopathy (lymphadenoprotection), which can be a symptom of many diseases. This means that in order to understand the true cause of lymphadenopathy, it is necessary to understand what is happening around and inside each enlarged lymph node.