Why does strep throat cause swollen glands?

The glands people feel in the neck are usually lymph nodes. They are part of the immune system and can enlarge or become tender when nearby tissues are inflamed or infected. With strep throat, this commonly affects nodes below the jaw and along the sides of the neck. Swollen Glands is a common presentation of Strep Throat, but enlarged lymph nodes can also occur with viral illnesses, dental infections, skin problems, and other conditions.

Nodes linked with an acute infection may be sore when pressed and may settle as the illness improves. A clinician should examine a new lump that persists, grows, feels hard or fixed, or is accompanied by unexplained weight change or ongoing night sweats.

Arrange an appointment if you have throat pain, fever, tender neck glands, or close contact with someone who has strep throat. An examination and throat test can help identify the cause. Rest, drink fluids, and avoid repeatedly pressing the swollen area, which can make it feel more tender. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed, and ask a pharmacist or clinician about safe pain relief.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, trouble swallowing saliva, drooling, rapidly enlarging neck swelling, severe neck stiffness, confusion, or inability to drink enough. Get prompt advice if swelling is mainly on one side with worsening pain, if the skin over it becomes red and hot, or if you feel markedly unwell.

Ask where the swollen nodes are, whether throat testing is appropriate, what changes should lead to another review, and how long it is sensible to monitor the swelling. Mention dental pain, skin infections, recent travel, medicine use, and other symptoms such as rash or fatigue.