Lymph nodes in groin are an integral part of the body’s immune system. 10 small nodes located on each side of the groyne help filter out waste in the lymphatic fluid. These help eliminate harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses, thus protecting the body from harmful infections. But lymph nodes may swell, indicating health concerns. Let’s understand what causes swelling in the inguinal lymph node and ways to treat it.
Causes of Enlarged Inguinal Lymph Nodes
Swollen inguinal lymph nodes, also known as inguinal lymphadenopathy, can occur due to various underlying causes. The most common causes of groin lymph node swelling are:
- Skin Infection (Cellulitis) – Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that occurs in the skin and underlying tissue. It often results in redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. The body’s immune response to the infection causes the inguinal lymph nodes to become swollen.
- Fungal Infection – Fungal infections caused by organisms like Candida and dermatophytes affect the inguinal lymph node. These infections occur in the groin area, causing irritation, redness, and discomfort.
- Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris) – Jock itch is a type of fungal infection that affects the groin area. It’s characterised by redness, itching, and a rash. The inguinal lymph nodes become swollen as a result of the body’s immune response to the infection.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – STIs, such as herpes, syphilis, and chlamydia, cause symptoms in the genital area and lead to enlarged inguinal lymph nodes.
Symptoms of Enlarged Inguinal Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes are tiny glands approximately the size of peas. Swelling causes them to grow significantly. In some cases, they may swell up to the size of a tennis ball. Other symptoms associated with enlarged inguinal lymph nodes vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are some general symptoms that might be experienced:
- Tenderness or Pain – Enlarged lymph nodes are tender and painful to touch. The degree of tenderness varies depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the enlargement.
- Redness and Warmth – Infections or inflammatory conditions cause the skin over the enlarged lymph nodes to become red and warm.
- Fever – Swelling caused by an infection usually has fever as a symptom.
- Skin Changes – Conditions like cellulitis or other skin infections in the groyne area cause changes in the skin texture, such as redness, rash, or scaling.
- Discharge or Drainage from the affected area– In cases where the lymph nodes are swollen due to an infection, there might be discharge or drainage from the affected area, particularly in case of localised infection.
- Fatigue – In cases of systemic infections, fatigue, body aches, and general feeling of discomfort remain predominant.
- Night Sweats: It is a symptom that may be associated with infection and inflammation along with inguinal lymph node swelling.
How is Inguinal Lymph Node Swelling Diagnosed?
In addition to physical examination, the healthcare provider may conduct a series of tests to diagnose the groin lymph node swelling.
- Medical history evaluation
- Blood Tests
- Imaging Test
- Lymph Node Biopsy
Treatment for Inguinal Lymph Node Swelling
The treatment for swollen lymph nodes in groin will depend upon the cause.
- Prescription drugs, including antivirals, antibiotics, and antifungals, are prescribed in case of infections.
- Immunotherapy, which includes drugs to support the immune system, is prescribed in case of autoimmune disorders.
- Surgery is recommended to remove abnormal growths
- Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are administered in case of cancer.
- Specific medications are prescribed to manage conditions and symptoms.
Management Tips for Inguinal Lymph Node Swelling
In addition to the medical treatment, certain general tips can help sail through the condition comfortably. These include:
- Rest and Hydration – Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
- Warm Compress – Apply a warm compress to the swollen area for relief from pain and discomfort.
- Avoid Irritants – Avoid using products that irritate the area.
- Avoid Tight Clothing – Do not wear tight clothing in the groyne area.
- Keep Your Legs Elevated – When resting, keep your legs elevated to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Recovering from Inguinal Lymph Node Swelling
The duration and road map to the recovery from inguinal lymph node swelling will depend upon the cause and treatment of the swollen inguinal lymph nodes. With proper treatment, the swelling usually goes away in a few days but can take a few weeks for complete recovery.
Conclusion
Inguinal lymph nodes, the ten pea-sized nodes located at either side of the groyne, are an integral part of the body’s immune system. But any infection or condition, especially affecting the lower body, causes the Inguinal lymph node to swell. Though concerning, the condition can be managed effectively. Proper diagnosis and treatment help combat the cause of swelling. Complete recovery usually takes a few days to weeks.
