Stress doesn't directly cause swollen lymph nodes, but it can indirectly contribute to them by affecting your immune system.
According to UTMB's Dr. Samuel Mathis, "Stress does not directly cause swollen lymph nodes. However, stress can lead to swollen lymph nodes by affecting the immune system."
Here’s how stress can lead to swollen lymph nodes indirectly:
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Weakened Immune System: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. These infections can then cause your lymph nodes to swell as they work to fight off the invaders.
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Indirect Health Impacts: Stress can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as poor diet, lack of sleep, and decreased exercise. These factors can weaken your immune system and increase the likelihood of infections, which can then cause lymph node swelling.
| Factor | How it Relates to Swollen Lymph Nodes |
|---|---|
| Stress | Weakens the immune system, increasing vulnerability to infections. |
| Infections | A common cause of swollen lymph nodes, as the lymph nodes fight off the infection. |
| Lifestyle Choices | Stress can negatively affect lifestyle choices, further weakening the immune system. |
Therefore, while stress itself isn't a direct cause of swollen lymph nodes, it can create conditions that make you more prone to infections, which then lead to lymph node swelling.
