What is the cause of swollen glands?

Answer by  DrMom (854)

Swollen glands appear when the body fights infection. Lymph glands swell as white cells detour from the blood stream into the nodes where they fight off infection. It's the body's defense against illness and it can cause painful swelling of the glands. It is a normal occurrence during illness.

Answer by  DtheM1 (1150)

Swollen glands are not always a bad thing. What you are describing sounds like swollen lymph nodes, which means that your son is fighting a cold or other virus. If the glands have been swollen for a long time and your son is not sick, then you should see a doctor.

Answer by  mcdbeals (201)

He may be getting the mumps in which case he needs to go to the doctor. Mumps can result in sterility in boys if untreated. He also may be coming down with tonsilitis. Again, a doctor is recommended.

Answer by  KMcRae (714)

Swollen glands in the neck at that age are typically associated with a strep infection. Strep is a bacteria which can cause sore throat and swollen glands. It is typically treated with various different forms of antibiotics and usually causes no further complications when treated The doctor will take a swab of the throat in order to confirm strep infection.