Submandibular Lymph Nodes

There are many cervical (neck) lymph nodes, like the submandibular lymph nodes, in the neck that can cause a swelling or enlargement in the neck. Enlargement can often mean the presence of an infection or disease. Lymphatic fluid drains from different regions of the head and neck. When these lymph nodes become overwhelmed with debris from an illness or infection, it can cause a lymph node to enlarge and sell. Only a medical professional can diagnose the cause of a swollen lymph node.

Some of the lymph nodes that are in the neck include the following lymph nodes

  • Submandibular
  • Submental
  • Posterior cervidal
  • Suboccipital
  • Postauricular
  • Preauricular
  • Supraclavicular

The submandibular lymph nodes are located along the underside of the jaw on either side. It is responsible for lymphatic drainage of the tongue, submaxillary (salivary) gland, lips, mouth, and conjunctiva (mucous membrane that covers the eyeball and under surface of the eyelid). Infections of the following can cause the submandibular lymph nodes to enlarge:

  • Head
  • Neck
  • Sinuses
  • Ears
  • Eyes
  • Scalp
  • Pharynx

Some of the most common reasons for an enlarged or swollen submandibular lymph node is cytomegalovirus (human herpesvirus 5), tuberculosis, sexually transmitted disease, bacterial infection, Epstein-Barr virus, and cat-scratch disease.

Enlarged Causes And Risk Factors

When the submandibular lymph node is swollen it is called submandibular lymphadenopathy. Infection and cancer can cause lymphadenopathy. Other causes include drugs like phenytoin sodium (Dilantin), collegen vascular disorders, and sarcoidosis (immune system cells form lumps called granulomas).

Lymphatic Fluid

The ultra fine blood that is collected within the lymphatic channels is called lymphatic fluid. It slowly runs throughout the body and passes through approximately 600 lymph nodes. It is part of the lymphatic system, which carries cells that help fight infection and other diseases. It carries waste and debris from the cells.

Lymph Nodes

The hundreds of lymph nodes in the body filter the lymphatic fluid. They also produce white blood cells that fight infections and diseases. They are part of the lymphatic system and a very important part of the immune system. They can become enlarged when there is infection or disease in the body.

Sometimes people refer to swollen lymph nodes as swollen glands. This is especially common for lymph nodes on the neck. Some of the common reasons that the lymph nodes will swell up is because of infection, an abscess, cancer, or inflammatory conditions. The most common reason is infection in the area of the lymph node that is swollen or enlarged. An injury can also cause the lymph node to swell up. Infection or injury will usually cause a lymph node to swell and become sore suddenly. Other illnesses or disease like cancer may cause the lymph node to swell gradually and painlessly. A medical professional should check any lymph node that is causing concern.

Lymph Node Location

Learn about Lymph Node Location.