What causes head and neck swelling?
Swelling in the head and neck region is a common later effect of head and neck cancer treatment. Lymphedema is described as a chronic swelling that results from damage to the lymphatic system. When the flow of lymphatic fluid is disrupted, it can result in a build-up of lymphatic fluid, causing swelling.
Why does my whole body feel swollen?
Body parts swell from injury or inflammation. It can affect a small area or the entire body. Medications, pregnancy, infections, and many other medical problems can cause edema. Edema happens when your small blood vessels leak fluid into nearby tissues.
What causes swelling in the neck area?
The most common lumps or swellings are enlarged lymph nodes. These can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, cancer (malignancy), or other rare causes. Swollen salivary glands under the jaw may be caused by infection or cancer. Lumps in the muscles of the neck are caused by injury or torticollis.
What causes swelling at base of skull?
Causes of swelling. Share on Pinterest Bacterial infections, psoriasis, and ringworm can cause swelling of the occipital lymph nodes. A variety of skin infections can affect the scalp, which can cause the occipital lymph nodes to swell. In rare cases, the swelling of these lymph nodes can be a sign of cancer.
When should you worry about swelling?
When to Seek Care for Swelling. You should seek emergency care if you have sudden, unexplained swelling in just one limb or if it occurs along with chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood, fever, or skin that is red and warm to the touch.
What is neck lymphedema?
Head and neck lymphedema occurs when the body is unable to transport fluid due to damage to the lymphatic system. It happens when scarring from a surgery blocks lymphatic vessels in the neck or the lymphatic system is damaged by radiation therapy. Because the fluid isn’t easily moved, it rarely recedes on its own.