The lymph nodes are found throughout the body and are a vital part of the immune system. They help the body to recognize and fight infections, germs and other foreign substances. The enlargement of one or more lymph nodes is referred to as 'swollen glands'. In a child, if the node is more that 1 centimeter in diameter, it is considered enlarged. Swollen glands in the throat may also be caused by sinusitis, as the sinus cavity may get clogged with phlegm. Swollen glands accompanied by fever brings with it throat ache and weakness too. This condition causes intense discomfort and throat pain which may stretch upwards to the jaws and downwards to the shoulders and arms. It could also result in a difficulty in swallowing food. The pain may also increase so much that it becomes difficult to move the head and arms. Swollen glands and fever is also generally seen in children with acute tonsillitis or viral fever.
It is very important to treat the infection that is causing the swollen glands. You may try to improve the blood circulation in the area by gently massaging with the fingertips. This helps to improve the circulation of blood in the throat and soothes the pain. You can also improve circulation in the area through hydrotherapy, by applying hot and cold compresses alternately. Doing this for 15-20 minutes is effective in reducing the swelling and soothing the discomfort. Drinking warm water with fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp of honey daily is also helpful in treating the infection. Herbal teas such as chamomile tea, peppermint tea and ginger tea are also good for providing relief from the pain in the throat. You may also prepare a decoction by boiling basil leaves and cinnamon powder in water for 20 minutes. Sipping this 3-4 times a day will help to treat the swollen glands. Gargling with hot water and a pinch of salt is also helpful in the reduction of congestion and swelling in the glands. Milk boiled with pepper and turmeric and taken at night for 3-5 days also helps in treating swollen glands. Fenugreek seeds are very beneficial in reducing swollen glands. Add 2 tsps of fenugreek seeds to water and boil. Once it has cooled down, this can be used to gargle.
Vegetable juices, especially carrot, cucumber, mint and beet juice is very useful in improving the body's immunity and preventing further viral infections. Garlic is also excellent for treating infection that causes swollen glands and fever. You may either swallow 2 pearls of garlic every morning or use liberally in food preparations. Gargling with a dissolvent tablet also helps in minor cases.
answered by G M