Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： It sounds like you've completed all the necessary examinations. <br>Let's wait for a month to see if it resolves. <br>If it doesn't improve or even increases in size, I would recommend that you return to see a hematologist. <br>Thank you.

Lymphadenopathy

Hello Dr.
Chen, I have noticed a lump on the left side of my neck, approximately 1.2 to 1.3 cm in size, located in the middle area.
There is also a similar-sized lump on the right side, but it is positioned slightly lower.
The characteristics of both lumps are almost identical; they feel somewhat hard yet a bit soft, and they can move up and down as well as side to side.
They are not painful, and over the past two weeks, there hasn't been any noticeable increase in size.
However, I'm unsure if the lump on the right side is new or if I just hadn't felt it before.
Last week, I visited the hospital and consulted with a hematologist, who arranged for an ultrasound and blood tests.
The ultrasound results showed no enlarged lymph nodes, and my blood tests came back normal.
The doctor advised me to monitor the situation and mentioned that my risk is relatively low.
He also noted that I am on the thinner side, which might explain why I can feel some lumps that are normal anatomical structures.
Can I feel reassured about this? Recently, I have been using the air conditioning while sleeping, but I still seem to sweat.
Additionally, I have been feeling a bit more fatigued than usual.
Am I being overly concerned?

Daniel, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/16

Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology

Hello: It sounds like you've completed all the necessary examinations.
Let's wait for a month to see if it resolves.
If it doesn't improve or even increases in size, I would recommend that you return to see a hematologist.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2017/10/16

More Info

Lymph node swelling can be a concerning symptom, and it’s understandable to seek clarity on when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, you have noticed two swellings in your neck, approximately 1.2 to 1.3 cm in size, which are somewhat firm yet movable and painless. You have also undergone an ultrasound and blood tests, which returned normal results, and your doctor advised you to monitor the situation.

First, it’s important to understand the role of lymph nodes in the body. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in immune function. They can swell in response to infections, inflammation, or malignancies. The characteristics of the lymph nodes you described—movable, firm yet soft, and painless—are generally reassuring signs. However, there are specific circumstances under which you should seek further medical evaluation.

Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Duration of Swelling: If the lymph nodes remain swollen for more than two weeks without any signs of improvement, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. Persistent swelling can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that may require further investigation.

2. Changes in Size or Characteristics: If you notice that the lymph nodes are growing larger, becoming painful, or changing in texture (for instance, becoming hard or fixed in place), these changes warrant immediate medical attention.

3. Accompanying Symptoms: You mentioned experiencing fatigue and night sweats. While these symptoms can be benign, they can also be associated with various conditions, including infections or systemic illnesses. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to consult your doctor.

4. Other Symptoms: If you develop additional symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or persistent cough, these could be signs of a more serious condition, and you should seek medical advice promptly.

5. Family History and Risk Factors: If you have a family history of cancers or other significant health issues, it may be wise to discuss this with your doctor, as it could influence the decision to pursue further testing.

6. Follow-Up Recommendations: Since your doctor has advised observation, it’s crucial to adhere to this plan while remaining vigilant. Keep a record of any changes in your symptoms or the characteristics of the lymph nodes.

In summary, while your current situation appears to be low risk based on the normal ultrasound and blood tests, it is essential to remain observant. If any concerning changes occur or if you continue to experience fatigue and night sweats, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare team are key components in managing your health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Hello Doctor, since October of last year, I have had inflammation from acne that caused swelling of the lymph nodes on the left side of my neck. Initially, the swelling was painful and accompanied by fever, but after taking antibiotics, it has not subsided and has become hard (ab...

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
You can schedule an appointment with a general surgeon for evaluation.

Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. Around April of this year, I felt a swelling sensation on the left side of my Adam's apple, so I went to the ENT department at a nearby hospital. I was diagnosed with lymphadenopathy and was prescribed a five-day course of antibiotics. However, I did not notic...

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
1. If you only feel lumps on both sides of the Adam's apple, it is usually a benign condition (such as upper respiratory infections or inflammation); however, if you can feel lumps above both clavicles, the issue could be more serious (some may be benign diseases of the uppe...

Understanding Lymph Node Issues in the Neck: When to Seek Help

Medical history: History of nasopharyngeal lymphadenopathy excision, chronic hypertrophic rhinitis, and mild chronic urticaria dating back six months. Initially, I noticed a prominent swollen and painful mass on the right posterior neck, without any accompanying symptoms such as ...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you have recurrent swollen lymph nodes in the neck or other neck masses, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist. Wishing you good health and safety.

Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello, doctor. Last week, I felt a lymph node about 2 cm in size at the intersection of my neck and left shoulder. It is movable and not painful. The next day, I went to see an ENT specialist and had blood tests done. The doctor reviewed the results and said that aside from anemi...

Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Hello, netizen: If you have noticed lymph nodes that have been palpable for a short period, it is advisable to monitor them for a few months. If they continue to enlarge or if more nodes appear, further evaluation is recommended.