Why would a lymph node in a person’s neck be swollen? However, less commonly, it can point to cancer.

Swollen lymph nodes usually signal an infection or inflammation in the body. What do swollen lymph nodes usually mean? People should contact a doctor if the nodes feel hard, grow in size, or do not move freely. In most cases, swollen lymph nodes resolve on their own. Should I worry about painful lymph nodes? In this case, a person should contact a doctor. It is concerning if they persist beyond this time, feel hard or do not move when pressed, or are accompanied by night sweats and a very high temperature. Swollen lymph nodes typically resolve within 1–2 weeks. When should a person worry about a swollen lymph node? Here are some frequently asked questions about swollen lymph nodes. They may also recommend a core needle biopsy to remove the sample.

During this procedure, the doctor will numb the area, make a cut, and remove a section of lymph node tissue to send to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.Īlternatively, they may opt for fine needle aspiration, which involves using a needle to remove some cells from the lymph node for analysis. If the swelling continues for several weeks or a person has other warning signs, a doctor may recommend a lymph node biopsy. Imaging tests, such as a CT scan, can help a doctor look closely at the lymph nodes and the surrounding structures of the body. These tests may include a routine blood test to look for signs of infection. However, they may also order medical tests to determine the cause of the swelling. They may also discuss the person’s symptoms and medical history. To assist with reaching an accurate diagnosis, they may perform a physical examination with a focus on the affected area. How do doctors diagnose the cause of swollen lymph nodes? Lower body infections, and injury to the legs can also cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin. Lymph nodes in the groin are also known as inguinal lymph nodes. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as syphilis, can cause swollen lymph nodes, typically in the groin area. They may also experience systemic symptoms, such as: People with a malignant lymph node may notice that the node feels hard or rubbery.

These include being aged 40 years or older and being assigned male at birth.

metastases, or the spread of an existing cancerĬertain risk factors make a person more likely to have a malignant lymph problem, such as lymphoma.

Much less commonly, swollen lymph nodes can also indicate a malignancy, or cancer, including: Immune disorders that can cause swollen lymph glands include: InfectionsĮxamples of infections that can cause swollen lymph nodes can include:Ĭat scratch fever, which is also called cat scratch disease, can cause localized lymph node swelling in the area near the cat scratch. The following sections discuss the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes in more detail. When more than one region swells, this is called generalized lymphadenopathy, and it usually signifies a systemic, or body-wide, disease that may require medical attention. Most people have localized lymphadenopathy, in which only the lymph nodes in one particular area of the body swell up. It is important to contact a doctor to discuss any possible side effects of medications. These conditions can include:Ĭertain medications can also cause swelling. Many different conditions cause the lymph nodes to swell, particularly the nodes in the head and neck. For example, an ear infection may cause swollen lymph nodes near the ear, while someone with an upper respiratory tract infection may notice swollen lymph nodes in their neck. The location of the swelling often relates to the affected area. The swelling occurs as a result of immune cell activity in the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes may swell when a person has an infection. Lymph nodes also contain immune cells that help fight infection by attacking the germs that the body’s lymph fluid has collected. The lymph nodes filter the fluid and release it back into the bloodstream together with salts and proteins. While doing so, it collects and traps harmful matter, such as bacteria, viruses, and bodily waste products. Lymph fluid flows in and out of the lymph nodes throughout the body before finally making its way back to the chest. The main lymph nodes that people may see or feel are found: The human body has hundreds of lymph nodes. The lymph nodes collect and filter fluids, waste materials, and harmful germs. Share on Pinterest Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy United

Back neck lymph nodes