Swollen Lymph Nodes? Here's What to Know

Virtual Visits for Swollen Glands

Finding a swollen lump in your neck, beneath your jaw, under your arm, or in your groin can be concerning. Many people immediately worry that something serious is wrong. Fortunately, swollen lymph nodes are commonly a sign that your immune system is doing its job by responding to an infection, inflammation, or another condition affecting your body.

In many cases, swollen lymph nodes improve as the underlying illness resolves. However, swollen glands that continue to enlarge, become increasingly painful, or remain swollen for an extended period should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

VirtualCare2Go makes it easy to connect with a licensed Texas provider from wherever you are in Texas. A virtual visit can help determine whether your symptoms may be related to a common illness or whether further evaluation is recommended.

Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling that interferes with swallowing, severe neck swelling, confusion, or any other life-threatening symptoms.

What Are Lymph Nodes?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of your immune system. They act as filters, helping your body trap bacteria, viruses, and other substances before they spread.

You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout your body, but they're most commonly noticed when they become enlarged in areas such as:

• The sides of the neck
• Under the jaw
• Behind the ears
• Above the collarbone
• Under the arms
• The groin

Healthy lymph nodes are often too small to notice. When your immune system is actively fighting an infection or responding to inflammation, these nodes may temporarily become larger and more tender.

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes can develop for many different reasons. Some of the more common causes include:

• Colds and other viral illnesses
• Strep throat
• Ear infections
• Sinus infections
• Dental infections
• Skin infections
• Allergic reactions
• Minor cuts or injuries near the affected area

Sometimes swollen lymph nodes develop after your body has recently fought off an illness, even if you're already starting to feel better.

Common Symptoms

Depending on the cause, you may notice:

• Tender or painful lumps in the neck, jaw, armpit, or groin
• Swelling that can be felt under the skin
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Runny nose
• Ear pain
• Tooth discomfort
• General feeling of illness

The symptoms you experience often depend on the underlying cause rather than the swollen lymph node itself.

When Should You Monitor Your Symptoms?

Many swollen lymph nodes improve as your body recovers from a viral infection or other temporary illness. During this time, it may help to:

• Stay well hydrated.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.
• Monitor the size of the swollen area.
• Watch for new or worsening symptoms.

Avoid repeatedly pressing or checking swollen lymph nodes throughout the day, as frequent irritation may increase tenderness.

When Should You Schedule a Virtual Visit?

A virtual appointment is a convenient option if you're unsure why your lymph nodes are swollen or if they're accompanied by symptoms such as a sore throat, congestion, ear pain, or fatigue.

During your VirtualCare2Go visit, a licensed Texas provider may:

• Review your symptoms and medical history
• Discuss when the swelling first appeared
• Ask about recent illnesses or exposures
• Recommend supportive care
• Determine whether prescription treatment may be appropriate
• Decide whether additional testing or an in-person examination is recommended

Treatment recommendations are based on your provider's evaluation and may vary depending on the underlying cause.

When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Care?

While many swollen lymph nodes are related to common illnesses, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Rapidly enlarging neck swelling
• High fever with severe illness
• Severe neck stiffness
• Confusion
• Persistent swelling accompanied by significant weight loss or drenching night sweats
• Any other severe or life-threatening symptoms

Convenient Virtual Care Throughout Texas

If you've noticed swollen glands and aren't sure what they mean, you don't have to spend hours searching online for answers. VirtualCare2Go provides convenient telehealth visits with licensed Texas providers who can evaluate your symptoms and help you determine the most appropriate next steps.

Whether your symptoms began with a sore throat, cold, ear infection, or another illness, we're here to help.

Book your virtual visit today: https://virtualcare2go.com/