What might cause sore, swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck are most often caused by localized infections. Common culprits include tonsillitis, submandibular gland issues (such as salivary stones or infection), and tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. Less commonly, one-sided neck swelling may signal a dental infection, skin infection, or, in rare cases, a growth requiring further evaluation.

Because the causes range from minor to more serious, understanding the specific pattern of your symptoms is key to knowing whether you need rest, antibiotics, or prompt medical care. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify likely causes based on your unique symptoms and guide your next steps—so you can act with confidence instead of guessing.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover likely causes of swollen neck nodes Learn if neck swelling needs care today Find out what your lymph nodes mean See OTC relief for swollen neck discomfort Find a doctor for neck lymph nodes Understand home remedies for swollen lymph nodes Check if swollen neck nodes need care

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Explanation

Swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck can have several causes. One possible reason is an infection, which can lead to swelling in the submandibular glands. These are located under the jaw and can become swollen due to various infections, as discussed by Eleftheriadis et al.

Another potential cause is tick-borne lymphadenopathy (TIBOLA), a condition where a tick bite leads to swollen lymph nodes, as explained by Lakos. This condition can cause the lymph nodes to become sore and enlarged.

Additionally, unilateral tonsillar enlargement, where one tonsil is larger than the other, can also cause swelling of the lymph nodes on one side of the neck. This is explored in the study by Cortez et al.

To summarize, infections, tick bites, and tonsillar issues are some reasons for swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck. If you're experiencing swollen lymph nodes or related symptoms, you can use Ubie's free AI symptom checker to help identify potential causes, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

(References)

Eleftheriadis I, Papadimitriou P, & Tzelepi H. (1990). [Submandibular swelling and its differential diagnosis]. To Helleniko periodiko gia stomatike & gnathoprosopike cheirourgike, 2130058.
Lakos A. (2002). Tick-borne lymphadenopathy (TIBOLA). Wiener klinische Wochenschrift, 12422619.
Cortez EA, Mattox DE, Holt GR, & Gates GA. (1979). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement. Otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, 530694.

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