How is swollen lymph nodes treated?

Lymph nodes enlarge when immune cells respond to a nearby or whole-body problem. A clinician considers where the nodes are, how long they have been enlarged, whether they are tender, and whether there are symptoms such as fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss. Examination and selected blood tests or scans may be enough; a needle sample or biopsy may be needed when the cause remains uncertain.

If lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, head and neck cancer or cancer that has spread is diagnosed, treatment is directed at that condition. Chemotherapy is one possible treatment, but the choice may also involve other medicines, radiotherapy, surgery or monitoring.

Arrange an assessment if a node persists, grows, feels hard or fixed, or appears without a clear short-lived illness. Note its location, changes in size, tenderness and associated symptoms. Do not repeatedly squeeze the area. Bring a list of medicines and recent infections, dental problems, skin changes or vaccinations to the appointment.

Get urgent help if swelling causes difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly worsens, or comes with severe illness. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent fever, drenching night sweats, marked tiredness or unexplained weight loss. These signs do not identify a diagnosis on their own, but they should not be ignored.

What causes are you considering? Do I need blood tests, imaging or a biopsy? How long should I monitor the node? Which changes should lead me to call sooner?