Indeed, the human body has several lymph nodes that are in charge of filtering viruses and bad bacteria so they don't enter the body. If one or more of your lymph nodes are swollen, try to deflate them by treating the underlying injury, disease, or infection. In general, swelling of the lymph nodes occurs in the neck, groin, and armpits. If the number of swollen lymph nodes is not just one, it is most likely that there is a general problem with your health. If the swelling is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will generally prescribe antibiotics to treat it. However, if the swelling is caused by a viral infection, your doctor will prescribe medication to treat the underlying symptoms, but usually you will need to wait for the lymph node to shrink in size on its own. If the doctor suspects cancer may be present, he or she will most likely perform a biopsy to get a diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment method. Do not hesitate to consult all your concerns and questions to the doctor!
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Method 1 of 3: Reduce Swelling Fast
Step 1. Locate the swollen lymph node
When the pain begins to appear, immediately trace the skin with your fingers until you find the location of the problematic lymph node. First of all, understand that humans have lymph nodes around their neck, armpits and groin. Also, be aware that the size of the swelling varies greatly, from as small as a pea to the size of an olive or even larger.
Remember, the number of swollen lymph nodes can be more than one at a time
Step 2. Take over-the-counter drugs
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help control swelling around the lymph nodes. In addition, these drugs are also able to relieve other symptoms, such as fever. Make sure you take over-the-counter medicines according to the recommended use and dosage instructions listed on the package!
Step 3. Compress the lymph nodes with a warm towel
Wet a cloth or towel with warm running water. After the temperature is hot enough, immediately compress it to the lymph nodes; let stand until the temperature of the towel returns to normal. Repeat this process 3 times a day until the size of the lymph node is reduced and the pain is reduced.
Warm compresses are effective in improving blood flow to the swollen area
Step 4. Compress the lymph nodes with a cold towel
Place a cold towel or cloth on the lymph nodes for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process 3 times a day until the size is reduced.
Step 5. Perform a lymphatic massage
Gently rub the lymph nodes to bring blood to the area and reduce swelling. If necessary, arrange an appointment with a specialized therapist or try self-massage if the lymph node location is within your reach. When massaging the lymph nodes, push your fingers toward your heart for best results.
Step 6. Do not put pressure on the swollen skin
The intensity of pressure that is too high on the lymph node risks rupturing the surrounding blood vessels and worsening the condition. This rule should especially be emphasized to children as they tend to get frustrated more easily and try to squeeze swollen lymph nodes.
Method 2 of 3: Doing Medical Treatment
Step 1. Arrange an appointment with a doctor
In many cases, lymph nodes can swell and deflate without causing any harm to the body. However, you should see a doctor if the size of the lymph node continues to increase and the texture begins to harden. Most likely, the doctor will perform a physical examination, as well as a body scan or blood work if needed.
- Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by various types of infections such as mononucleosis, tuberculosis, ear infections, sore throat due to bacterial infections, and measles.
- Immediately see a doctor if the size of the lymph node suddenly enlarges or swells overnight.
Step 2. Treat the infection immediately to avoid serious health complications
If the swelling of the lymph nodes is caused by an infection, they will most likely not shrink in size until you are completely healthy. Therefore, immediately treat the infection that occurs so that the swelling does not turn into an abscess filled with pus! In more extreme cases, patients can even experience blood poisoning due to bacteria that cause infection.
Step 3. Take the antibiotics prescribed by the doctor
If your doctor thinks the swelling is caused by bacteria, you will most likely be prescribed antibiotics. Make sure you finish the antibiotics, even if your body feels better midway. Antibiotics will not be given if the swelling is caused by a viral infection.
Step 4. Watch for other symptoms
If the swelling of the lymph nodes is due to an infection or disease, your body will likely show a variety of other symptoms. Try to identify it so that your doctor can understand your condition better and can recommend the most appropriate treatment method. Some other symptoms that may appear are fever, a persistent runny nose, cold sweats at night, or sore throat.
Step 5. Be patient as the recovery process is not instant
In fact, the chances of a lymph node improving overnight are very small. Often, the pain in the lymph nodes will subside after a few days, but the swelling will subside after a few weeks.
Step 6. Drain the fluid from the lymph nodes
If the infection worsens, the lymph node can transform into an abscess filled with pus. The pus must be removed by a doctor immediately to prevent a more severe infection. Generally, this procedure is performed if the abscess is located in the neck area.
Method 3 of 3: Treating Lymph Nodes with Natural Medicines
Step 1. Eat the raw garlic
Some of the chemical components in garlic can help fight infections in your lymphatic system. Therefore, try crushing 2-3 cloves of raw garlic with a pestle, spreading it on a piece of bread and eating it. Repeat this process every day and observe the results.
Step 2. Drink apple cider vinegar diluted with water
Prepare a glass of water, then dissolve 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar in it. Drink the solution 2 times a day until your condition feels better. In fact, the acetic acid content in apple cider vinegar can kill bad bacteria that can cause abscesses in swollen lymph nodes.
Step 3. Increase the consumption of vitamin C
The body of a person who is deficient in vitamin C will not be able to fight infection effectively. To increase the intake of vitamin C in the body, try taking supplements or eating foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges and strawberries. Before taking supplements, make sure you consult your doctor first!
Step 4. Rub the swollen skin with tea tree oil
Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil with 2-3 drops of coconut oil. After that, apply the solution to the irritated lymph nodes. Do this process a maximum of twice a day so that the skin is not irritated.
