Lymph Nodes - Swollen

DEFINITION

• 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 less than ½ inch (12 mm) across (size of pea or baked bean)

• Swollen nodes with a viral infection are usually ½ to 1 inch (12 -25 mm) across.
• Swollen nodes with a bacterial infection are usually over 1 inch (25 mm) across (size of a quarter).

• Swollen lymph nodes alone are not contagious. If the swollen nodes are associated with a cold, sore throat or other infection, your child can return to school after the fever is gone and your child feels well enough to participate in normal activities.

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

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR SMALL LYMPH NODES

1. 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).
2. 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.
3. Fever or Pain Medicine: Give acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen as needed for fever above 102° F (39° C) or pain. Otherwise no treatment is needed.
4. 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.
5. Contagiousness: Swollen lymph nodes alone are not contagious. If the swollen nodes are associated with a cold, sore throat or other infection, your child can return to school after the fever is gone and your child feels well enough to participate in normal activities.
6. 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.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Node enlarges to over 1 inch in size
   • Node over ½ inch persists over 1 month
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.