Symptom 8: Lymph Node Swelling
Lymph nodes, a critical part of our immune system, are situated throughout our body, functioning as filters for harmful pathogens. When they’re doing their job efficiently, most of us remain blissfully unaware of their existence. However, when there’s a localized infection, like Parulis, these nodes, especially those under the jaw or on the neck, swing into action, often leading to noticeable swelling.
At its core, the swelling is an immune response. As the nodes trap and battle the bacteria causing Parulis, they become inflamed. This isn’t just a random reaction. It’s a coordinated effort to contain and combat the infection, making the environment less accommodating for the pathogens.
While lymph nodes can swell for various reasons, it’s essential to connect the dots when there are accompanying oral symptoms. If you’re observing tenderness or swelling in the nodes beneath your jaw or along your neck, and simultaneously experiencing oral discomfort or visible symptoms like a gum boil, the correlation becomes hard to ignore.
A temporary swelling of the lymph nodes post an infection is typical. However, if this swelling persists or is particularly painful, it’s a sign to seek medical attention. Persistent swelling might indicate that the body is still actively combating an infection, or it might be a symptom of other underlying issues. (8)
