Are swollen lymph nodes in the throat a symptom of the cold or the flu?

Answer 1

The lymph nodes are part of the immune system and their enlargement (swelling) is not specific. It may be seen in the presence of any infection and due to inflammation of any cause and enlargement of the lymph nodes is also seen in cancer. The lymphatic vessels run parallel to nerves, arteries, and veins within which a thin watery fluid circulates. Periodically along the lymphatic vessel are lymph nodes. Lymph nodes serve as a relay system. When something is going on in the body the nodes send out a signal for certain types of cells. When the cells arrive the lymph nodes literally places an instruction 'tag' on the cells. The cells go off to do their work and when they are done they return to the lymph node where the cells are dismantled. The resultant debris is then sent along the lymphatic channel for disposal. The increased activity or cellular 'traffic' in the lymph nodes causes it to enlarge.

Answer 2

TopCauses of Swollen lymph nodes:

The following medical conditions are some of the possible causes of Swollen lymph nodes. There are likely to be other possible causes, so ask your doctor about your symptoms.

Numerous conditions and infections can cause swollen lymph nodes including:
Common cold
Infections
Viruses
Mononucleosis
Tonsilitis
Lymphoma
Hodgkin's disease
Leukemia
Tuberculosis
Sarcoidosis
Toxoplasmosis
Secondary syphilis (type of Syphilis)
Yaws
Cat scratch fever
Lymphatic obstruction
Causes of swollen neck glands include:
Common cold
Upper respiratory infection
Mononucleosis
Sore throat
Strep throat
Viral infection
Bacterial infection
Sinus infection
Ear infection
Skin infection (type of Skin conditions)
Dental conditions
Syphilis
Tuberculosis
Hodgkin's disease
Numerous other infections can cause swollen neck glands
Glandular fever
Mumps
Sore throat - may cause swollen lymph nodes; see causes of sore throat
Rubella
Infected wound - may cause swelling in lymph glands.

Call Your Doctor If...

You develop a high temperature.
A swollen node grows to more than 1 to 2 inches across.
A swollen node remains larger than 1/2 inch for more than 1 month.
Your lymph nodes continue to feel tender or get worse.
A swollen node grows more tender to the touch, red streaks develop near it, the overlying skin becomes red, or you develop a rash.

Answer 3

Could be, but most likely a sign of a throat infection or other infection in that area. swollen lymph nodes are signs of infection, it is when lymph accumulates in that area, lymph is white blood cells, trying to fight the infection.

Answer 4

i was going to recommend prednisone but being that you tried i guess i'm no help to you . the sore throats are probably caused by the nasal drip do you use a nasal spray such as flonase or anything? i also get sore throats frequently but they go away in about two days very painful . i feel bad for you hope you find some kind of relief . did u ever go and see an allergist its a possibility you might be allergic to something you might be in contact with on a daily bases even a food

Answer 5

when your lymph nodes swell that means your imune system is trying to fight something off.

Answer 6

perhaps both..

symptoms of the flu are more like achy bodies.. and such..