Does seasonal allergies cause lymphadenopathy?

Symptoms of seasonal allergies - Excessive mucus production, runny nose and congestion - are caused by allergens such as pollen or mold. Seasonal allergies do not directly lead to swollen lymph nodes. However, seasonal allergies can cause sinus infections or ear infections, and these infections are a common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy. A swollen lymph node may also be caused by many other diseases. If the swollen lymph nodes persist or are related to you, see your doctor.

A young woman sneezes in the flowers. (Source: ajkkafe / iStock / Getty Images)

swollen lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are small masses found in many parts of the body. They contain cells that help fight infection. The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is head or neck infection. Seasonal allergies do not cause lymphadenopathy. However, many people with seasonal allergies develop ear or sinus infections, which in turn can lead to enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. Throat infections and the common cold are also common causes of cervical lymphadenopathy. Less common is that swollen lymph nodes occur in other types of infections, such as mononucleosis or tuberculosis, other diseases, and even some drugs. Sometimes swollen lymph nodes have no identifiable cause.

When to see a doctor

If your lymph node is larger than the size of cowpea, you should seek medical attention. Painful or very hard work. If you have a doctor, please see the doctor's lymph nodes for any drainage or if the swelling is more than about 2 weeks. Lymph node enlargement due to infection should begin to decrease as the infection improves. If your lymph node is swollen in another part of your neck, such as your armpit or groin, you should also see a doctor.