What are glands and why do they throb?
When most people refer to throbbing 'glands,' they are actually talking about lymph nodes. These small, bean-shaped structures are a critical part of your lymphatic system, which helps your body fight infection and illness. Located throughout your body—including your neck, armpits, and groin—they house immune cells that trap bacteria, viruses, and other invaders.
Throbbing is often a symptom of inflammation and increased activity inside the lymph node. When your body detects an infection nearby, it sends a rush of immune cells to the nearest lymph nodes to mount a defense. This influx of cells and fluid causes the nodes to swell and become tender, which can be felt as a pulsating or throbbing discomfort. This is generally a normal and healthy immune response.
Common infections causing throbbing glands
Infections are the most frequent cause of lymph node throbbing. The location of the throbbing often indicates the site of the primary infection.
- Upper Respiratory Infections: A cold, flu, sore throat, or sinus infection can cause the lymph nodes in your neck to swell and throb.
- Ear Infections: An infection in your ear can lead to throbbing lymph nodes behind or below the ear.
- Dental Issues: Problems like an abscessed or impacted tooth, or an infection in your gums, can affect the lymph nodes under your jaw.
- Skin Infections: A skin infection, wound, or bite on your arm or hand can cause the lymph nodes in your armpit to throb. An infection on your leg or foot might affect nodes in the groin.
- Mononucleosis: This viral infection, also known as mono or glandular fever, often causes noticeable swelling and throbbing in the neck and armpit lymph nodes.
Autoimmune diseases and other non-infectious causes
While infections are the most common culprit, other conditions can also trigger lymph node throbbing. These are typically less common but can be more serious.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause widespread or localized lymph node swelling and throbbing.
- Cancer: In rare cases, lymphoma or other cancers that spread to the lymph nodes can cause swelling. These nodes may feel hard, fixed in place, and painless, but they can also cause discomfort.
- Medication Reactions: Certain drugs, including some anti-seizure and anti-malarial medications, can cause swollen and tender lymph nodes as a side effect.
- Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions can sometimes trigger an immune response that causes temporary lymph node swelling.
Localized vs. Generalized Lymph Node Swelling
Throbbing glands can be either localized (affecting one area) or generalized (affecting multiple areas). The distinction can be a useful clue for your doctor in determining the underlying cause.
| Feature | Localized Swelling | Generalized Swelling |
|---|---|---|
| Common Causes | Upper respiratory infection, dental abscess, minor skin wound, ear infection, strep throat. | Systemic viral illness (mono, measles, HIV), autoimmune disorders (lupus, RA), systemic infections, some cancers. |
| Symptom Clues | Swelling and throbbing are concentrated near the site of infection. Accompanied by localized pain or symptoms. | Swelling occurs in two or more lymph node groups across the body. May be accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, or night sweats. |
| Underlying Issue | An immune response focused on a specific point of entry for germs. | A widespread immune response to an illness or condition affecting the entire body. |
When should you see a doctor?
Most of the time, a throbbing gland is a temporary symptom that resolves as your body fights off an infection. However, you should consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- The throbbing and swelling persist for more than a couple of weeks or continue to get larger.
- The lymph nodes feel hard, irregular, or fixed and don't move when you press on them.
- You experience other concerning symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, or drenching night sweats.
- You have swollen glands in multiple areas of your body for no clear reason.
- You have throbbing glands that appear without any other obvious signs of infection, such as a cold or sore throat.
What to expect during a medical evaluation
If you visit a doctor for throbbing glands, they will likely start with a physical examination and ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may palpate the affected nodes to check their size, texture, and tenderness.
Based on the initial assessment, further testing might be ordered to help pinpoint the cause. This could include:
- Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can check for signs of infection.
- Imaging scans: In some cases, a CT scan might be used to examine the lymph nodes more closely.
- Lymph node biopsy: If a serious condition is suspected, a small sample of the lymph node tissue may be removed and examined under a microscope.
For more information on the function of lymph nodes and the lymphatic system, you can refer to authoritative sources such as Mount Sinai's health library.
Conclusion
Experiencing throbbing glands is a common symptom that signifies your immune system is working to protect you. In most cases, it's a temporary discomfort caused by a minor infection. By paying attention to accompanying symptoms and the duration of the throbbing, you can determine when it's time to seek professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying signs to ensure an accurate diagnosis and proper care.
