Swollen Lymph Nodes – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors take several steps to figure out why someone has swollen lymph nodes. They usually start by asking questions about when the swelling began, how it’s changed, and if there are any other symptoms.
They’ll want to know about recent infections, weight loss, night sweats, or fevers. These answers help them decide which tests to run.
Next, doctors actually examine the patient. They feel the lymph nodes, checking their size, shape, tenderness, and whether they’re soft, rubbery, or hard. They also check if the swelling is just in one spot or in several areas.
If the lymph nodes feel hard or non-tender, doctors get more concerned about things like lymphoma or cancer.
Doctors often order lab tests, like a complete blood count (CBC), to check for infections or blood disorders. These tests look at the types and amounts of white blood cells, which might point to leukemia or other issues.
Blood tests can also check for autoimmune conditions such as sarcoidosis.
Imaging tests come next if needed. Chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs help spot tumors or enlarged nodes deep inside the body. For nodes near the surface, like in the neck or armpit, ultrasound works pretty well.
If they need more information, doctors might do a lymph node biopsy. They use a needle (fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy) or sometimes remove the whole node (excisional biopsy).
A pathologist checks the sample for lymphoma, metastatic melanoma, or other cancers.
Treatment
Treatment for swollen lymph nodes really depends on what’s causing the problem. If a bacterial infection like cat-scratch disease or Lyme disease is behind it, doctors usually prescribe antibiotics.
| Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Bacterial infection | Antibiotics |
| Viral infection | Wait for virus to clear |
| Immune disorder | Treat underlying disease |
| Cancer | Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation |
| Medication side effect | Stop or change medicine |
Antibiotics don’t work on viral infections. Those usually get better on their own as the virus runs its course.
If someone has an immune disorder, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, doctors focus on treating the underlying disease. Swollen nodes caused by cancer may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers or warm compresses can sometimes help with discomfort. Certain medications, like phenytoin, might also cause swelling as a side effect.
Taking Care of Yourself
If you have swollen lymph nodes in spots like your neck, armpit, or groin, you can try some simple home care. A warm, damp cloth over the swollen area a few times a day can help with discomfort.
| Symptom | Possible Self Care Step |
|---|---|
| Sore lymph nodes | Warm compress, rest |
| Fever | Pain reliever, fluids |
| Rash or night sweats | Monitor, seek advice if new |
Pain and fever medicine—like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen—may help, too. Kids should only take medicine recommended for them. Never give aspirin to children who are recovering from flu-like illnesses.
Rest matters, especially if you’re also dealing with fever, fatigue, or night sweats from infections like strep throat or mono. Keep an eye out for new symptoms, such as a rash, weight loss, or immune system changes.
These could mean your lymphatic system needs more attention.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Seeing Your Doctor
Getting ready for an appointment about swollen lymph nodes can make things go smoother. It helps to gather information and follow any instructions from your healthcare provider.
Check for Special Directions: Call your doctor’s office ahead of time. Ask if you should fast, stop any medicines, or do anything else before your visit.
Track Symptoms and Timeline: Write down all your symptoms—like fever, sore throat, or trouble swallowing. Note when they started and if they’ve changed. Don’t forget changes in weight or any new night sweats.
Record Recent Contacts and Activities: List any possible sources of infection or illness.
| Exposure Type | Examples |
| Recent Travel | Visited another country or tick-heavy areas |
| Animal Contact | Bitten or scratched by a cat, exposure to other new animals |
| Food | Ate undercooked meat |
| Personal/Relationship | New sexual partner, unprotected sex |
- Write Down All Medicines and Conditions: Make a list of all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you’re taking. Add any health problems or chronic conditions.
-
Prepare Questions:
Think about asking things like:- What might be causing the swollen lymph nodes?
- What tests will I need?
- When should I start feeling better?
- How can I prevent these symptoms next time?
- Is there a risk of spreading this to others?
- What are my treatment options?
- Are there cheaper alternatives to the recommended medicines?
- Will my other health issues affect treatment?
Jotting this info down on a notepad or your phone can help you remember everything during your visit.
What Your Doctor May Ask You
During your exam, your doctor will focus on the area with the swollen nodes. Expect questions about your symptoms and health history.
They might ask:
- When did your symptoms start? Have they changed?
- Are the lymph nodes painful or tender?
- Have the nodes grown in size?
- Any fevers, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss?
- Any trouble swallowing or breathing?
- Recent sore throat or changes in bowel habits?
- Are you taking any medicines now?
- Have you traveled lately to places with unusual illnesses or insects?
- Any new animal contact or animal bites?
- Have you had a new sexual partner or changes in sexual behavior?
- Do you smoke? If so, for how long?
Quick Tip:
Being ready for these questions helps your doctor figure out what’s behind your swollen lymph nodes.
How to Manage Until Your Appointment
While waiting to see your doctor, you can try a few simple things to feel better.
- Use a clean, warm compress on the swollen area.
- Take non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but always follow the label.
- Rest as much as you can.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Don’t irritate the swollen area or handle it roughly.
If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or if your symptoms suddenly get much worse, get medical help right away.
