Lymphadenopathy: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Q: Lymphadenopathy: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Hello： Generally speaking, it is indeed common to occasionally see swollen lymph nodes in the neck during a cold, and most of them will resolve as the illness improves. <br>A small number may have one or two lymph nodes that do not completely disappear, but they are usually not v

Lymphadenopathy

Hello, doctor! I have a small lump on my neck.
I visited a large hospital in June, and the doctor said it was a lymph node, which might disappear on its own in a few months or half a year.
After that, I had a few colds, and other lymph nodes appeared on my neck, but they disappeared after the colds resolved.
However, that one lump is still there.
It's been almost five months, and it hasn't grown larger, nor does it hurt, and I don't have any other discomfort.
Whenever I see a doctor for a cold, I ask about it, and they all say it hasn't changed in size, so it's fine.
Is that really the case, or should I go back to the large hospital for another check-up?

Haha1230, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/23

Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology

Hello: Generally speaking, it is indeed common to occasionally see swollen lymph nodes in the neck during a cold, and most of them will resolve as the illness improves.
A small number may have one or two lymph nodes that do not completely disappear, but they are usually not very large.
Clinically, lymph nodes that are problematic typically measure greater than 1 cm; if they exceed this size, surgical removal is recommended.
If they are less than 1 cm, it is advisable to continue monitoring, as true cancer would not remain stable and would typically continue to grow.
Thank you for your inquiry!

Reply Date: 2016/10/23

More Info

Lymphadenopathy, or swollen lymph nodes, can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when they notice a persistent lump in their neck or other areas of the body. In your case, it sounds like you have a small lymph node that has remained unchanged for several months, which is a positive sign. Lymph nodes can swell for various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or malignancies. However, the fact that your lymph node has not changed in size, is not painful, and is not associated with any systemic symptoms (like fever, weight loss, or night sweats) is reassuring.

When it comes to lymphadenopathy, the general rule of thumb is to monitor the lymph node for changes. If it remains stable, as in your situation, and you are not experiencing any other concerning symptoms, it is often safe to continue observation. Many lymph nodes can remain palpable for extended periods without indicating a serious underlying condition. Infections, such as viral upper respiratory infections, can cause temporary swelling of lymph nodes, which may resolve once the infection clears.
However, there are certain situations where further medical evaluation is warranted. If you notice any of the following changes, it would be advisable to seek further medical advice:
1. Size Increase: If the lymph node begins to grow larger or new lymph nodes appear.

2. Pain or Tenderness: If the lymph node becomes painful or tender to the touch.

3. Associated Symptoms: If you develop systemic symptoms such as unexplained fever, significant weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fatigue.

4. Duration: If the lymph node remains unchanged for more than six months, particularly if it is larger than 1 cm in diameter.

5. Hardness or Fixation: If the lymph node feels hard or is fixed to the surrounding tissues, rather than being mobile.

In your case, since the lymph node has remained stable and you are not experiencing any other symptoms, it may not be necessary to return to the hospital immediately. However, it is always a good idea to trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy or if any new symptoms arise, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for peace of mind.

Additionally, it’s important to maintain regular check-ups with your doctor, especially if you have a history of recurrent infections or other health concerns. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

In summary, while your current situation appears stable, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and aware of any changes. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, seeking further medical evaluation is always a wise decision. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and your healthcare provider is there to help you navigate these concerns.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Neck Lymphadenopathy: When to Seek Further Medical Attention

In May of this year, I discovered that I had 2 to 3 swollen lymph nodes in my neck, so I went to a general clinic and took antibiotics for a week. A month later, a few more nodes appeared near my collarbone, prompting me to visit an ear, nose, and throat specialist. The doctor re...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Dear Li Jun, There are many reasons for cervical lymphadenopathy. The examinations arranged by the hospital you mentioned should align with the standard procedures for evaluating neck masses. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult further with the physician from t...

Understanding Persistent Lymphadenopathy: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello Doctor: I have had swelling in the left side of my neck for a month and a half. It is somewhat painful when pressed, and there are signs that it has increased in size and number. I went to the hospital for an examination and had an ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration two ...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if the growth continues, it is advisable to seek medical attention again.

Understanding Lymph Node Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

About a week ago, my daughter felt some soreness in her neck and twisted it a bit. During this, she accidentally noticed a small lump on the back of her right neck, which was round, less than one centimeter in size, and movable. Concerned, we visited a nearby ENT clinic. At that ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If there is no significant change in size, you may observe it for now. However, if it continues to grow, the number increases, or if there is persistent pain, you should return for a check-up and further evaluation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Y...

Understanding Lymphadenopathy: When to Seek Further Medical Attention

Dr. Lee, I would like to ask you about a round, movable lump that I can feel near my gums on the left side of my face. I visited an ENT clinic, and the doctor said it was an enlarged lymph node. The doctor mentioned that if it shrinks and doesn't continue to enlarge, there i...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
If the child exceeds a certain size, a cytological or ultrasound examination is recommended. It is advised to visit an otolaryngology outpatient clinic. Wishing you good health.