Swollen Lymph Nodes? Why Your Glands Swell & Medically Approved Steps to Take

If you've noticed swollen lymph nodes, you're not alone. Many people feel a lump in their neck, under their jaw, in their armpit, or in their groin at some point in their lives. In most cases, swollen lymph nodes are a normal response to infection and not something dangerous. However, there are times when they deserve closer attention.

Let's break down what swollen lymph nodes mean, why they happen, and what you should do next—based on credible medical guidance.

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What Are Lymph Nodes?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that are part of your immune system. They act as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances before they can spread through your body.

You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout your body, but the ones you're most likely to feel are located in:

• The sides and back of your neck
• Under your jaw
• Behind your ears
• In your armpits
• In your groin

When lymph nodes swell, it usually means your immune system is actively fighting something.

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Why Do Lymph Nodes Swell?

Swollen lymph nodes (also called lymphadenopathy) happen when immune cells multiply inside the node in response to infection, inflammation, or—in rare cases—cancer.

Here are the most common causes:

1. Infections (Most Common Cause)

This is by far the most frequent reason for swollen lymph nodes.

Common infections include:

• Cold or flu
• Strep throat
• Ear infections
• Sinus infections
• Dental infections
• Mononucleosis
• Skin infections

When you're sick, especially with a sore throat or respiratory infection, it's very common for the lymph nodes in your neck to swell and feel tender.

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2. Viral Illnesses

Viruses often cause multiple swollen lymph nodes at once. These may feel:

• Slightly tender
• Soft or rubbery
• Movable under the skin

They often go down within 2–4 weeks after the illness improves.

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3. Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections may cause:

• Larger swelling
• More tenderness
• Redness or warmth over the area
• Fever

These sometimes require antibiotics.

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4. Inflammatory or Autoimmune Conditions

Conditions like:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis

can also cause swollen lymph nodes due to ongoing immune system activity.

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5. Cancer (Less Common, But Important)

In some cases, swollen lymph nodes may be related to:

• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Cancers that spread from other areas

While this is much less common than infection, certain warning signs should not be ignored (more on that below).

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What Do Swollen Lymph Nodes Feel Like?

Swollen lymph nodes can vary in size and texture.

They may feel:

• Small and pea-sized
• Larger than a marble
• Tender or painful
• Firm or rubbery
• Fixed in place or movable

Tender nodes usually suggest infection. Painless, hard, or fixed nodes need medical evaluation.

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When Should You Be Concerned?

Most swollen lymph nodes are harmless and temporary. However, you should speak to a doctor promptly if you notice:

• A node larger than 1 inch (about the size of a quarter)
• Swelling that lasts longer than 2–4 weeks
• Hard, immovable lymph nodes
• Rapid growth
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats
• Persistent fever
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

These symptoms don't automatically mean something serious is happening—but they do require medical evaluation.

If you're experiencing neck swelling and want to better understand what might be causing it, Ubie's free AI-powered A Lump in the Neck Symptom Checker can help you identify possible causes and determine whether you should seek immediate medical care.

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How Are Swollen Lymph Nodes Diagnosed?

A doctor will usually:

1. Ask about recent illnesses or infections
2. Perform a physical exam
3. Check the size, texture, and location of the node

If needed, they may order:

• Blood tests
• Imaging (ultrasound or CT scan)
• A biopsy (in certain cases)

In most situations, testing is not necessary if there's a clear infection and the lymph nodes improve as you recover.

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Medically Approved Steps to Take

If you have swollen lymph nodes, here's what experts recommend:

✅ 1. Monitor the Size and Duration

Keep track of:

• When the swelling started
• Whether it's getting bigger or smaller
• Any new symptoms

Many swollen lymph nodes shrink on their own within a few weeks.

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✅ 2. Treat the Underlying Cause

If you have cold or flu symptoms:

• Rest
• Stay hydrated
• Use fever reducers if needed

If you suspect a bacterial infection (like strep throat or a dental infection), see a doctor. Antibiotics may be required.

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✅ 3. Use Comfort Measures

To reduce discomfort:

• Apply a warm compress
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed)
• Avoid repeatedly pressing or checking the node

Constantly touching a lymph node can irritate it and prolong swelling.

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✅ 4. Avoid Panic—but Don't Ignore Red Flags

The vast majority of swollen lymph nodes are related to infection. However, ignoring persistent or unusual swelling isn't wise either.

Balance is key.

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How Long Do Swollen Lymph Nodes Last?

It depends on the cause.

• Viral infections: 1–4 weeks
• Bacterial infections: Improve after treatment
• Post-infection swelling: May linger even after you feel better

Sometimes a lymph node shrinks but never returns completely to its original size. That can be normal.

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Swollen Lymph Nodes in Children vs. Adults

Children frequently develop swollen lymph nodes because their immune systems are constantly encountering new viruses.

In adults, persistent swollen lymph nodes deserve closer evaluation—especially without a clear infection.

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Common Locations and What They May Mean

Neck

Most often due to:

• Cold
• Flu
• Strep throat
• Dental issues

Armpit

Can be related to:

• Skin infections
• Shaving irritation
• Breast infections
• Vaccinations

Groin

Often caused by:

• Lower body infections
• Skin injuries
• Sexually transmitted infections

Location helps doctors determine the likely cause.

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Can Stress Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes?

Stress alone does not directly cause swollen lymph nodes. However, stress can weaken your immune system, making you more prone to infections—which can lead to swollen lymph nodes.

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The Bottom Line

Swollen lymph nodes are usually a sign that your immune system is doing its job. Most cases are caused by common infections and resolve on their own.

However, you should not ignore:

• Persistent swelling
• Hard or fixed nodes
• Systemic symptoms like fever, night sweats, or weight loss

If you notice something unusual, consider starting with a free online symptom check for A Lump in the Neck and then speak to a doctor promptly if anything suggests a potentially serious or life-threatening condition.

When it comes to swollen lymph nodes, informed awareness—not panic—is the healthiest approach.