Lymph nodes most often enlarge near an area where there is inflammation or infection. For example, nodes in the neck may respond to a sore throat, pharyngitis, dental infection, ear infection, or a viral cold. Axillary lymph nodes sometimes enlarge when the skin of the arm is inflamed or after irritation in the armpit area. Inguinal nodes may respond to skin infections of the legs, genital infections, or inflammatory processes in the lower body.<\/p>\n
There is less cause for alarm if the lymph node:<\/p>\n
- \n
- appeared during a cold, sore throat or runny nose;<\/li>\n
- painful when pressed;<\/li>\n
- movable under the skin;<\/li>\n
- gradually decreases after recovery;<\/li>\n
- not accompanied by sudden weight loss, night sweats, or prolonged fever;<\/li>\n
- has a clear connection with local inflammation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
But even after an infection, a lymph node doesn't always go away right away. Sometimes it can remain enlarged for a while, gradually shrinking. However, if a node grows, becomes firm, doesn't move, or persists for a long time without an obvious cause, it's best to see a doctor.<\/p>\n
When to see a doctor<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The Mayo Clinic advises seeking medical evaluation if lymph nodes appear for no apparent reason, continue to enlarge or remain enlarged for two to four weeks, are hard, fixed, or are accompanied by a persistent fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss. Seek immediate medical attention if there is difficulty breathing or swallowing.<\/p>\n
The examination should not be postponed if:<\/p>\n
- \n
- the lymph node enlarges without a cold or other obvious cause;<\/li>\n
- the knot lasts for more than a few weeks;<\/li>\n
- the knot is hard or almost immobile;<\/li>\n
- several groups of lymph nodes are enlarged;<\/li>\n
- there is night sweats;<\/li>\n
- there is a temperature for no apparent reason;<\/li>\n
- there is weight loss;<\/li>\n
- there is severe weakness;<\/li>\n
- there are frequent infections;<\/li>\n
- there is a rash;<\/li>\n
- there is a sore throat that does not go away for a long time;<\/li>\n
- there is bleeding, bruising, or paleness;<\/li>\n
- the node is located above the collarbone;<\/li>\n
- difficulty swallowing or breathing appeared.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The presence of such symptoms does not automatically mean a serious illness. But it is a reason not to limit yourself to observation at home.<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\nWhat the doctor assesses during the examination<\/strong><\/h2>\n
First of all, the doctor is not in a hurry to prescribe tests - first he conducts an examination and asks the patient questions. Everything is important: where the node is located, what it feels like to the touch, whether it hurts, whether it moves, whether there are other nodes nearby, whether there are any signs of infection.<\/p>\n
Typical questions from the doctor:<\/p>\n
- \n
- when the node appeared;<\/li>\n
- were there any symptoms of SARS (sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever);<\/li>\n
- are there any problems with your teeth;<\/li>\n
- whether there were any skin injuries, scratches, animal or tick bites;<\/li>\n
- Have you traveled recently?;<\/li>\n
- Are you concerned about night sweats or weight loss?;<\/li>\n
- What medications do you take;<\/li>\n
- are there any chronic diseases;<\/li>\n
- Has anything like this happened before?.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
According to MedlinePlus, not only the node itself (size, mobility, tenderness, density) is evaluated, but also the general condition. If necessary, a complete blood count with a formula, as well as liver and kidney tests are prescribed.<\/p>\n
What blood tests may be needed?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Lab tests can help determine if there are signs of infection, inflammation, anemia, changes in blood cells, or problems with internal organs. The Mayo Clinic notes that a complete blood count and other tests can help find the cause of enlarged lymph nodes.<\/p>\n
Most often, a doctor can start with basic tests.<\/p>\n
\n\n
\n \nExamination<\/th>\n What helps to evaluate<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Complete blood count<\/td>\n White blood cells, hemoglobin, platelets, signs of infection, anemia, or blood changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Leukocyte formula<\/td>\n Ratio of different types of white blood cells<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n C-reactive protein<\/td>\n Activity of the inflammatory process<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Erythrocyte sedimentation rate<\/td>\n Nonspecific sign of inflammation or chronic process<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Biochemical blood test<\/td>\n General condition of the body, protein metabolism, liver and kidney function<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Liver tests<\/a><\/td>\n May be needed if viral infections or systemic conditions are suspected<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Tests for viral infections<\/td>\n May be needed for prolonged fever, weakness, rash, or enlargement of multiple groups of nodes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Immunological indicators<\/td>\n May be appropriate if an autoimmune process is suspected<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Additional hematology tests<\/td>\n Prescribed for changes in general blood tests or suspected blood diseases<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n