Does glandular fever cause swollen glands?

Glands, also called lymph nodes, can enlarge when immune cells respond to an infection. With glandular fever, swollen nodes are often noticeable in the neck and may feel tender when touched. Sore throat, fever and heavy tiredness can accompany them. Swollen glands can also occur with many other infections and some non-infectious conditions, so their presence alone does not determine the cause.

Rest, drink regularly and avoid repeatedly pressing or massaging the swollen area. Note where the glands are, whether they are tender, and whether their size changes as other symptoms improve. A clinician can examine the nodes and nearby throat, then decide whether testing or follow-up is appropriate. Do not take leftover antibiotics without medical advice.

Arrange an assessment if swelling is persistent, rapidly increasing, very painful, hard, or accompanied by ongoing fever or worsening illness. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe dehydration, confusion, or sudden strong pain in the upper left abdomen. These signs need prompt review.

Ask whether the location and tenderness of the glands fit an infection, whether glandular fever testing is suitable, and how to monitor them. Tell the clinician about recent illness, throat symptoms, fever, medicines and any change in the swelling.