Swollen Lymph Nodes
The lymph system is the part of the immune system that transports disease-fighting white blood cells called lymphocytes (also known as B cells) throughout the body to help fight infections. The lymph nodes, which are small bean-sized clusters of tissue located in various organs, including the throat, neck, armpits, and groin, filter out potentially harmful substances from the blood. Swollen lymph nodes are a common infection symptom with many STDs in men, including gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
This symptom is caused by increased group A streptococcal bacteria and inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes. The symptoms may even occur before any other symptoms appear. Lymph node swelling is often seen with chlamydia and herpes, but it can also be caused by other STDs such as HIV, pubic lice, and scabies.
The presence of swollen lymph nodes may signal an STD or another condition that requires medical attention. Therefore, men who experience these symptoms should immediately see a doctor to determine if they have an STD or other condition that cannot be self-diagnosed.
