What is Mesenteric Lymphadenitis? – Check Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Under Lymphadenitis, people suffer from inflammation of the lymph nodes, which play a significant part in enhancing the immune system. The lymph nodes protect the body against infections and store lymphocytes that are called white blood cells. So, when pathogens attack, these nodes swell and cause a growth in white blood cells. The process of swelling of the lymph nodes is accompanied by pain.

When the swelling of the abdominal lymph nodes takes place near the stomach area, and it comes with abdomen pain, it is called mesenteric Lymphadenitis. Under this condition, the swelling takes place in the particular area of the lymph nodes, which connect the mesentery or the abdominal wall to the bowel. The size of the lymph nodes generally is of a pea. However, they tend to grow large and become tender when swollen and cause discomfort in the abdomen.

Mesenteric Lymphadenitis is common among children and teenagers, while it is less common among people over the age of 20. This is a rare condition that doesn’t require any special treatment. It settles with time.

Causes of Mesenteric Lymphadenitis

There are several causes, like viral and bacterial infections. Here are some common causes of the disease:

1. Virus infection:

Viral infection is a common cause of this ailment. The inflammation in the stomach can mostly be due to gastroenteritis which leads to swelling in the lymph nodes. When caused by a viral infection, this condition is termed mesenteric adenitis.

2. Infection of Bacteria:

Various bacterial infections can also cause this condition, such as a cat scratch, which is again a very rare contagion. This infection is mainly caused if a cat’s saliva touches the open wound of an individual by licking. Or if a cat scratches/bites someone in a way to break the skin. This makes the infested area inflamed and red.

3. Infections caused by Parasites:

Organisms that thrive on an individual for food are called parasites. The infection caused by parasites can cause Mesenteric Lymphadenitis. For example, toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, and it is caused by the consumption of uncooked or filthy meat. This also causes seizures and inflammation in the lymph nodes.

4. Caused by Gastroenteritis:

Gastroenteritis is another cause of Mesenteric Lymphadenitis, also called stomach flu. The swelling of the lymph nodes causes it.

5. Stay Hydrated:

It is necessary to be hydrated to recompense the fluid loss in the body caused by diarrhea and vomiting, which are common symptoms of the disease. Intake of sufficient water will enhance appetite and lower temperature.

6. Over-the-Counter Pain Killer:

If the fever and pain persist, you can take the help of over-the-counter medicine. However, be very careful while giving such medicines to children and teens as they might have side effects.

7. Drink Fluids:

If your appetite has gone for a toss due to the condition while recovering from it, try to intake lots of fluid to compensate for the fluid loss. Prefer fresh juices and electrolyte powders to restore the fluid.

8. Antibiotic Therapy:

In case of severe mesenteric Lymphadenitis, you may require medical support to get better. In this case, you may use antibiotics to treat the swelling of the lymph nodes.