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Health Tip: Why You May Have Swollen Lymph Nodes

(HealthDay News) -- If you notice swollen areas around your neck, behind your head or ears, or under your arms, you might be feeling swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are a key line of defense against infection.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers this list of possible reasons for swollen lymph nodes:

  • An ear infection.

  • The gum disease gingivitis.

  • A tooth that is impacted or abscessed.

  • Mononucleosis.

  • A sexually transmitted disease, including HIV.

  • Tonsillitis.

  • Sores in the mouth.

  • Tuberculosis.

  • Rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Certain cancers, such as leukemia, Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Date Last Reviewed: 5/14/2009
Date Last Modified: 5/14/2009