The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system. It helps fight against infection and inflammation. It consists of lymph glands (lymph nodes) throughout the body. Lymph channels carry lymph fluid from parts of the body to nearby lymph glands to be filtered.
Lymphangitis is an inflammation of lymph channels. It is caused by infected lymph fluid traveling from a site of infection. Symptoms are tender red streaks on the skin near the area of infection.
The condition can become very serious if not treated. The infection is treated with antibiotics or other medicines that treat the infection. If an abscess is present, it may be drained. When the site of infection is treated, the lymphangitis goes away.
Home care
- Take all medicine to treat the infection exactly as prescribed until it is gone. Be very careful not to miss any doses. Don’t stop taking the medicine until it is finished or your healthcare provider tells you to stop, even if you feel better.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medicines.
- Make a warm compress by running hot water over a face cloth. Apply it to the sore area until the compress cools off. Repeat 3 times a day for the first 3 days. The heat will increase the blood flow to the area and speed the healing process. As an alternative, you can stand in the shower and direct the warm spray to the area.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as directed.
When to seek medical advice
Call your healthcare provider if any of the following occur:
- Increasing areas of redness or pain at the site of infection
- Red streaks continue to grow
- Pus or fluid draining from the lymph node
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider.