Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes in some part of body, the most frequent places being in the groins and under the arms.

Symptoms of lymphadenitis include swollen, tender and hard lymph nodes. This is often accompanied by red and tender skin in the area of the lymph node. If an abscess (collection of pus) has formed in the affected area, the lymph nodes may feel rubbery.

Other symptoms include those associated with whatever might have caused the lymphadenitis. Given that a main cause of lymphadenitis is a streptococcal infection, other “body-encompassing” symptoms can include fever, chills, headache and an overall feeling of unwell.

Apply hot moist packs to the inflamed areas two or three times a day. In more severe cases, penicillin should be given, the usual dose being 600,000 units a day.