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Swollen Jaw Lymph Nodes and Bleeding Gums: Causes and Actions
Common Causes
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis): Plaque bacteria cause inflammation, bleeding, and regional lymph node enlargement.
- Dental Abscess/Infected Tooth: Periapical infection spreads to lymph nodes.
- Sinusitis: Maxillary sinus infection causes facial swelling and node reactivity.
- Viral Infections: Mononucleosis (EBV), HIV (acute seroconversion or advanced).
- Malignancy: Lymphoma, leukemia, metastatic oral cancer (less common but serious).
Immediate Steps
- See a dentist or doctor promptly for exam, imaging, and labs.
- Oral hygiene: Soft brush, gentle floss, warm saltwater rinses 3–4×/day.
- Pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Avoid irritants: Tobacco, alcohol, spicy foods.
Red Flags for Urgent Care
- Difficulty breathing/swallowing
- High fever (>101°F)
- Rapidly worsening swelling
- Unexplained weight loss, night sweats
Most causes are treatable dental or infectious issues, but serious conditions must be ruled out.
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