Swollen Lymph Nodes on my Jaw.?!

Swollen Lymph Nodes on my Jaw.?

I have swollen lymph node on my jaw. It is about the size of a gobstopper. It hurts really bad, and is making the left side of my face (the side where the lymph node is) swell as well. That whole side of my face is painful to the touch. I haven't been sick, (because I know that's what usually causes it) and I'm not getting sick. I just need to know what to do to get rid of it. It's becoming unbearable. I'd also like to know what caused it to be there in the first place.

The lymph nodes drain excess fluid from your capillaries. Mostly what is in the lymph is foreign bodies (like bacteria, allergens, and fragments of protiens) and immune cells. Your lymph node is most likely swollen from an immune reaction. Sometimes this is due to an infection (not all infections make you feel "sick") and sometimes it is due to overactivation of the immune system in that area (allergies, certain blood conditions). The best thing for the pain and swelling right now would be ibuprofen or aleve(naproxen). These two drugs will have an effect on the swelling (tylenol will not). You really should see a doctor though, you may need antibiotics. If this continues more than a few days (since you first noticed it) then call and get an appointment or go to an urgent care center.