Persistent Neck Lymph Node Pain After Chemotherapy

Q: Persistent Neck Lymph Node Pain After Chemotherapy

Hello, online user： It is recommended to continue chemotherapy and complete the entire treatment course.

Is the persistent pain in the neck lymph nodes after chemotherapy an indication that it hasn't been controlled?

Hello Doctor, my father is 50 years old and has stage IV gastric cancer that has metastasized to the lymph nodes in his shoulder and abdomen, as well as to a small tumor in one of his lung lobes, approximately 1 cm in size.
There is also a small tumor in one of his bronchi (as explained by the doctor).
Initially, my father was referred from the ENT department to the pulmonology department due to swelling in the shoulder lymph nodes, where he was diagnosed with gastric cancer.
He has undergone three rounds of chemotherapy so far, and his overall health has been stable.
He did not originally have a cough, and the lymph nodes in his neck have significantly reduced in size; however, he still experiences occasional pain in the neck lymph nodes (which is manageable).
The doctor has prescribed pain medication.
Could you please advise if chemotherapy has limited effectiveness on my father's lymph node swelling, and if any additional supportive therapies are needed? Thank you, Doctor.
I appreciate your help.

Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/31

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology

Hello, online user: It is recommended to continue chemotherapy and complete the entire treatment course.

Reply Date: 2016/12/31

More Info

Persistent neck lymph node pain after chemotherapy can be a concerning symptom, especially in the context of a patient with advanced cancer, such as your father who has stage IV cancer with lymph node involvement. It’s important to understand the underlying reasons for this pain and the potential treatment options available.

Firstly, the presence of lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) in the neck can be due to several factors. In patients with cancer, lymph nodes may become enlarged due to metastatic disease, which means cancer cells have spread to these nodes. However, after chemotherapy, it is also possible for lymph nodes to remain tender or painful even if they are responding to treatment. This can occur due to inflammation or necrosis (tissue death) within the lymph nodes, which can happen as the chemotherapy works to kill cancer cells.

In your father’s case, it is encouraging that the lymph nodes have shown a reduction in size, indicating that the chemotherapy is having a positive effect. However, the persistent pain could be due to residual inflammation or irritation in the lymphatic tissue. It is also worth noting that some patients experience pain as a side effect of chemotherapy itself, which can affect various tissues in the body, including lymph nodes.

Regarding the treatment of persistent lymph node pain, it is essential to continue working closely with the oncologist. Pain management is a critical aspect of cancer care, and your father’s doctor has already prescribed pain relief medication, which is a good start. If the pain persists or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary. This could include imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to assess the lymph nodes for any changes or complications.

In terms of additional supportive therapies, there are several options that may help alleviate pain and improve overall well-being. These can include:
1. Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises and stretches can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort in the neck and shoulder area.

2. Complementary Therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or relaxation exercises may provide relief from pain and improve quality of life.

3. Nutritional Support: Maintaining a balanced diet can help support the body during treatment. Consulting with a nutritionist who specializes in oncology can be beneficial.

4. Psychological Support: Cancer can take a toll on mental health. Counseling or support groups can provide emotional support and coping strategies.

5. Palliative Care: If pain management becomes challenging, involving a palliative care team can help focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, regardless of the stage of cancer.

It is also essential to keep an open line of communication with the healthcare team. If there are any new symptoms or changes in your father’s condition, these should be reported promptly. The oncologist may consider adjusting the treatment plan based on how well your father is responding to chemotherapy and managing side effects.

In conclusion, while chemotherapy can effectively reduce lymph node size and treat cancer, persistent pain may still occur due to various reasons. A multidisciplinary approach involving pain management, supportive therapies, and regular follow-up with the healthcare team is crucial in addressing these symptoms and ensuring the best possible quality of life for your father during his treatment journey.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Lymph Node Inflammation: Causes and Solutions

About two months ago, I noticed a lump on the right side of my neck that has been swollen and painful. Sometimes I also have mouth ulcers and experience headaches that can last for 2-3 days. I've visited several ENT clinics, and they prescribed antibiotics, but there hasn&#x...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, based on your description, it is most likely that you are experiencing pharyngitis and oral ulcers accompanied by cervical lymphadenopathy. Treatment typically involves the use of certain medications, and antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary. However, if the cervical...

Understanding Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Symptoms, Recurrence, and Aftermath

Dear Dr. Chen, 1. Previously, in July 2008, I inquired about experiencing body-wide tingling after undergoing radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma in July 2005. A PET scan, which I paid for out of pocket, suggested recurrence in the left neck and right lower lung, but ...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Hello, Shang-Jun. 1. The probability of recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma after treatment is less than 3% after three years, so try to relax a bit. 2. Have you considered consulting a neurosurgeon or an internist? The cause of neck nerve compression could be due to fibros...

Managing Lymph Node Pain After Tongue Cancer Treatment: Key Insights

A 65-year-old male, who underwent treatment for stage 0 tongue cancer six months ago, has recently experienced pain and swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck. A CT scan performed on January 24, 2024, revealed three lymph nodes, one of which is larger, measuring less than 3 cm. ...

Dr. Yan Jingheng reply Oncology
Hello, 1. Pain relief medications can have different effects on individuals, but acetaminophen is generally considered the mildest pain reliever. 2. For tongue cancer surgery, if it was detected at a very early stage, monitoring after surgery may suffice. However, if the lymph no...

Understanding Lymph Node Swelling, Back Pain, and Night Sweats

Hello, Doctor. Since the passing of a family member in October, my previously hectic and stressful life has slowed down, and my body has started to react to the sadness with various symptoms. Over the past two months, I have been visiting the hospital almost every week, undergoin...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, currently the cause cannot be determined. If most tests show no abnormalities, chronic fatigue, autonomic nervous system disorders, or health anxiety may be suspected. It is recommended to seek evaluation and assessment from a psychosomatic medicine specialist.