There are many things that can cause hives, swollen lymph nodes to appear. When they happen at the same time an infection should be high on the suspect list. Lymph glands are there to help the body defend against infection. And when they are doing that job, it is normal for the lymph gland or nodes to increase in size. After doing so, they often remain swollen for a considerable length of time.
What Are Lymph Nodes Anyway?
Lymph nodes, or lymph glands, are an important part of the body’s defense system against infection. Infections sometimes result in hives. Swollen lymph nodes would be a normal part of fighting the infection that may be causing the hives. Swollen lymph nodes may be localized or generalized.
There are more than one lymph node areas. In fact, the following are areas where lymph node enlargement can occur.
- Cervical (neck) lymph node enlargement
- Axillary (arm pit) lymph node enlargement
- Epitrochlear lymph node enlargement
- Inguinal (groin) lymph node enlargement
- Femoral lymph node enlargement
It is common for the chest, arm, and neck areas to develop hives. Swollen lymph nodes can be found in those same areas and the causes for both can be the same. Common causes of lymph node enlargement are infections in the head, sinus, ears, eyes, and pharynx.
Could It Be Cancer?
Many people jump first to the conclusion that hives, swollen lymph nodes, and pain can mean cancer. Of all the lymph node area that may become swollen, only the supraclavicular lymph nodes on the left or right side of the clavicle, lateral to where it joins the sternum, could possibly be a symptom of cancer. Most of the time people experience hives, swollen lymph nodes are noticed in the ear and neck area. The hives are usually in the same general neck and ear or top of the chest area. The swelling of these lymph nodes are only enlarged as the result of infections, either local or in the ear canal. Your doctor can help you test any of these areas to alleviate your concern.
