Almost everyone experiences swollen lymph nodes at some point in their lives. These small, bean-shaped glands are a crucial part of your immune system, acting as filters to trap germs and other foreign substances. When your body is fighting an infection or dealing with inflammation, lymph nodes often swell as they work to clear out the problem.
But while swollen lymph nodes are frequently a sign that your body is doing its job, they can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, including cancer like lymphoma. Understanding why lymph nodes swell and knowing when to seek medical advice is essential for your health.
To shed light on this common health concern, we spoke with lymphoma specialist Felipe Samaniego, M.D., to answer your questions about swollen lymph nodes.
What Causes Lymph Nodes to Swell?
Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infection. When you get sick, whether from a virus, bacteria, or another cause, your lymph nodes work harder. They trap the germs and harmful substances, and the lymphocytes multiply to combat the threat. This increased activity and cell accumulation is what causes lymph nodes to become enlarged and sometimes tender.
Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that your immune system is active. They are a natural response to various conditions, most of which are not serious. Common causes of swollen lymph nodes include:
- Infections: Viral infections like the common cold, flu, mononucleosis (mono), and strep throat are frequent culprits. Bacterial infections, such as skin infections or tonsillitis, can also lead to swelling.
- Minor injuries: Even a small cut or wound can cause lymph nodes in the affected area to swell as your body works to prevent infection.
- Other inflammatory conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can sometimes cause generalized lymph node swelling.
Where Do Swollen Lymph Nodes Commonly Appear?
Swollen lymph nodes can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most easily noticed in certain areas where they are close to the skin’s surface. The most common locations to detect swollen lymph nodes include:
- Neck: The neck is a frequent site due to the proximity to the mouth and throat, common entry points for infections. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck are often associated with colds, sore throats, or ear infections.
- Armpits (Axillae): Lymph nodes in the armpits can swell due to infections or injuries in the arm or breast area. They can also be detected during mammograms.
- Groin: Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area can be related to infections in the legs, feet, or groin itself.
While less common, lymph nodes can swell throughout the body. This generalized swelling is more likely to be associated with systemic infections or other medical conditions and warrants medical attention.
How Can You Tell if a Swollen Lymph Node is Cancerous?
It’s natural to be concerned about cancer when you notice a swollen lymph node. While most swollen lymph nodes are benign, it’s important to be aware of the characteristics that may suggest a need for further investigation. Dr. Samaniego offers some helpful guidelines to distinguish between potentially cancerous and non-cancerous swollen lymph nodes:
- Size Matters: Lymph nodes naturally fluctuate in size as they respond to infections. However, if a lymph node is larger than 1.5 centimeters (about ¾ of an inch) or continues to grow, it should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Consider Your Age: Infections are a more common cause of swollen lymph nodes in younger people, especially teenagers and young adults who are more susceptible to infections like strep throat and mononucleosis. While cancer is less likely in younger individuals, it’s still possible. In older adults, the likelihood of cancer as a cause of swollen lymph nodes increases, though infection remains a more probable cause overall.
- Check the Consistency: Gently feel the swollen lymph node. Normal lymph nodes are typically soft and rubbery, similar to pressing the tip of your nose. Cancerous lymph nodes tend to be harder and more firm, feeling more like pressing on your chin.
- Pay Attention to Tenderness: Pain or tenderness in a swollen lymph node is often a reassuring sign. Tenderness usually indicates inflammation and an active immune response, which is more typical of infection. Lymph nodes swollen due to lymphoma are often painless.
It is crucial to remember these are general guidelines and not definitive diagnostic tools. If you have any concerns about a swollen lymph node, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.
What are Other Symptoms of Lymphoma Besides Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Swollen lymph nodes are a primary symptom of lymphoma, but other signs can also accompany this type of cancer, particularly as it progresses. These symptoms can be vague and are not exclusive to lymphoma, but it’s important to be aware of them, especially if you also have persistent swollen lymph nodes. Other lymphoma symptoms may include:
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be a sign of lymphoma or other cancers.
- Fever: Recurrent or persistent fevers, especially without an obvious infection, can be a symptom.
- Night sweats: Heavy sweating at night, soaking your pajamas and sheets, is another potential sign.
- Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest can be a symptom of lymphoma and other conditions.
- Itchy skin or rashes: In some early stages of lymphoma, patients may experience itchy, inflamed skin or unexplained rashes.
- Muscle aches after alcohol consumption: While less common, some individuals with lymphoma may experience pain in their lymph nodes after drinking alcohol.
When Should You See a Doctor for Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Most swollen lymph nodes are not a cause for serious concern and will resolve on their own as your body fights off an infection. However, it’s important to know when to seek medical advice. Dr. Samaniego advises that you should see your doctor if a swollen lymph node:
- Is larger than 1.5 centimeters (¾ inch) or is continuously growing.
- Does not go away or start to shrink within two weeks.
- Feels hard and fixed in place.
- Is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, or persistent fatigue.
Swollen lymph nodes are often a normal part of your body’s immune response. However, paying attention to their characteristics and seeking medical advice when necessary can ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate care if a more serious condition is present. If you are concerned about a swollen lymph node, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for peace of mind and expert guidance.
