Do you ever experience those small, soft lumps in the back of your neck? That might just be your occipital lymph nodes working for you.
There is also a time when one has to be mindful of small nodes and their implications about health issues.
What are Occipital Lymph Nodes?
There are very few small bean-sized occipital lymph nodes, which lie directly back in your head, literally, directly behind the occipital bone forming the lower rear part of your skull.
They form part of your remarkable lymphatic system at work, helping your body fight off infections and much else besides.
Key Facts:
- Localization: On the back of the head close to the occipital bone.
- Size: Typically small in size, as small as a pea unless it enlarges.
- Function: Filter lymph fluid and acquire harmful substances.
- Number: Typically 2-3 on each side of the head.
What are the reasons behind their importance?
The occipital nodes can be thought of as little checkpoints for your head and neck. They
- Removes all the filth including bacteria and viruses.
- Control infection in your body.
- Squeeze out any excess water from the scalp and the occipital area.
Common Causes
- Viral illnesses.
- Skin conditions affecting the scalp.
- Scalp infections.
- In rare cases, certain types of cancer.
- Ear infections.
When Occipital Lymph Nodes Act Up?
At times, these silent workers can become very noticeable. The following may arise:
Swelling
Swollen occipital lymph nodes typically mean that your body is fighting an infection. Some common causes of swollen occipital lymph nodes include:
- Ear infections.
- Scalp infections.
- Skin infections on the head or neck.
- Viral illnesses like the common cold or flu.
Pain
Occipital lymph node pain may occur with
- Indurated infected swelling of the nodes.
- Swelling at the site.
- More rarely, it can point to more serious conditions.
When to be Concerned About Swollen Occipital Lymph Node?
Often, there is nothing at all to be worried about. But in a small number of cases, it might be something seriously dire. See your doctor if:
- Prolonged swelling beyond 2 weeks.
- Nodes are too large bigger than a marble or hard.
- Unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss.
- Red or reddish discoloration over the skin.
How to Check Your Occipital Lymph Nodes?
Want to know what the occipital lymph nodes feel like? Easy to check:
- Run your fingers over the back of your head, lightly stroking.
- Massage the region where your skull meets your neck.
- Several small, round lumps the size of a pea.
- Redness and Swelling Assessment.
Anyways, it is only to be expected that lymph nodes become a bit tender when pressed.
When to See a Doctor?
Usually, enlarged occipital lymph nodes are not something to worry about.
In exceptionally rare instances, swollen occipital lymph nodes could appear as a symptom of very seriously wrong diseases.
Discuss with your doctor if you experience the following:
- Present nodes of balloons.
- Very soft or doughy nodes.
- Swelling that lasts more than two weeks.
- Unexplained recent weight loss or fever and tender lymph nodes.
Keeping it Healthy
As much as you cannot almost exercise your lymph nodes, you can help your overall lymphatic health by
- Water.
- Workout regularly.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Hygiene, especially towards your scalp and hair.
Interesting Facts
Are you aware?
- All the lymph nodes in the occipital are part of over 600 networks in the body.
- They are major to your body’s response to possible scalp infections or wounds.
- In some cases, nodes can be palpable even when not enlarged, primarily in slender patients.
Conclusion
Fine; the occipital nodes occupy a pretty small space of room. However, they play a significant role in helping you get well.
So, now that you know what they do and when you need to be worried, you have made an important step in controlling your general health.
Do not forget that these little nodes are doing their job protection for you.
FAQs
1. Is the swollen occipital lymph node stressing?
Stress may not cause swollen lymph nodes, but it suppresses the immunity system of an organism, whereby a body may become susceptibility to infections that could swell.
2. How long can it persist?
These usually regain their normal sizes within days to several weeks after the infection stimulus has been removed.
3. Can children have swollen occipital lymph nodes?
Swollen occipital lymph nodes are not uncommon in children, being associated with many common infections of childhood.
4. Is it involved with a headache?
The swollen occipital lymph nodes may sometimes be painful. Translated to action, it would be a headache.
