How common are swollen lymph nodes in head and neck cancer?

Head and neck cancer includes cancers arising in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nose and nearby tissues. Lymph nodes in the neck may enlarge when abnormal cells spread to them. A neck lump can also be caused by infection, inflammation or another non-cancerous problem. Other clues may include a persistent sore throat, hoarse voice, mouth ulcer, trouble swallowing, ear pain or a change in the mouth or throat. The pattern and duration guide assessment; a lump alone cannot determine the cause.

Arrange an appointment for a neck lump that persists or grows, especially when it is not settling after an infection. Write down when it began and note changes in voice, swallowing, mouth sores or ear symptoms. A clinician may examine the mouth, throat and neck and arrange imaging or tissue testing. If you have a cancer diagnosis, tell your care team about any new swelling rather than waiting for the next routine visit.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly worsening swelling or sudden confusion. Contact a clinician promptly for a persistent neck lump, coughing or hoarseness that does not improve, or unexplained bleeding. These symptoms require evaluation but do not prove that cancer is present.

Ask which area may be causing the enlarged node, whether an ear, nose, throat or dental examination is needed, and which test would provide more information. Clarify how quickly results are expected and which changes should prompt an earlier call.