Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenitis)

Overview

Swollen nodes are usually soft, tender, and movable when caused by infection.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Swollen, tender glands

Less common

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Night sweats

Look up a symptom: Swollen glands

When to get medical care

Causes

Infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Possible complications

• Lymphoma

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests:
• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Treat the cause.

Self-care

• Rest
• Warm compresses
• Use warm compresses

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a hematologist (blood doctor) if it doesn't go away.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Swollen neck nodes are common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most go away.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Do I need tests?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenitis)