Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

5. Parasitic Infections

A parasitic infection, such as toxoplasmosis, can cause the lymph nodes to swell. Parasitic infections activate the body's immune response which leads to the swollen lymph glands. Toxoplasmosis is not usually serious in a healthy person who is not pregnant. If you have a cat, you're at a greater risk of contracting this infection when you come into contact with cat feces. Consuming undercooked meat will also put you at risk. The symptoms of this infection will usually clear up within a few weeks without treatment. However, if a person has a compromised immune system or is an infant, medical treatment is necessary.