Swollen Lymph Nodes (Lymphadenopathy)
Description / Symptoms
- Increased size of a lymph node in the neck, armpit or groin
- Usually larger than the corresponding node on the other side of the body
- Normal nodes are usually < ½ inch across (size of pea or baked bean).
Cause
- Nodes with a viral infection are usually ½ to 1 inch across
- Nodes with a bacterial infection are usually > 1 inch across (size of a quarter).
See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one)
If swollen node is in the neck and sore throat is the main symptom, see Sore Throat.
When to Call Your Doctor for Swollen Lymph Nodes
Call Your Doctor Now If:
- Your child looks or acts very sick
- Node in the neck causes difficulty with breathing, swallowing or drinking
- Fever > 105°F (40.6°C)
- Overlying skin is red
- Rapid increase in size of node over several hours
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours If:
- You think your child needs to be seen
- 1 or more inches in size by measurement
- Very tender to the touch
- Interferes with moving the neck, arm or leg
- Fever lasts > 3 days
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Hours If:
- You have other questions or concerns
- In the neck and also has a sore throat
- Large nodes at multiple locations
- Cause of the swollen node is unknown
- Age under 1 month old
Home Care (Read "Call Your Doctor…" first):
Reassurance for Normal Nodes
If you have discovered a pea-sized or bean-sized node (smaller than ½ inch), this is a normal lymph node. Don't look for lymph nodes, because you can always find some (especially in the neck and groin).
Reassurance for Swollen Nodes from a Viral Infection
Viral throat infections and colds can cause lymph nodes in the neck to double in size. Slight enlargement and mild tenderness means the lymph node is fighting the infection and doing a good job.
Fever or Pain Medicine
Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen as needed for fever > 102°F (39°C) or pain. Otherwise no treatment is needed.
Avoid Squeezing
Don't squeeze lymph nodes because it may keep them from shrinking back to normal size. Tell your child not to fidget with them.
Contagiousness
Swollen lymph nodes are not contagious.
Expected Course
After the infection is gone, the nodes slowly return to normal size over 2 to 4 weeks. However, they won't ever completely disappear.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Node enlarges to > 1 inch in size
- Node larger than ½ inch persists > 1 month
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor…" symptoms
Related Health & Safety Information
Parent Care for Pediatric Symptoms. Copyright 2000-2006.