What do swollen lymph nodes feel like with head and neck cancer?

Affected nodes may feel like a firm or rubbery lump under the skin, often in the neck or beneath the jaw. They may be painless and easier to notice when you wash, shave, or turn your head.

A node can be small or more noticeable, fixed in place or able to move slightly beneath the fingers. One-sided neck swelling, a lump that does not settle, or swelling accompanied by a persistent sore throat, voice change, trouble swallowing, ear pain, or unexplained weight change needs assessment. These features do not identify the cause by touch alone; infections and other non-cancer conditions can also enlarge nodes.

Arrange an appointment with a clinician if a neck lump persists, grows, feels firm, or has no clear explanation. Note when it appeared, where it is, whether it changes, and any fever, night sweating, dental problem, throat symptom, or recent infection. The evaluation may include an examination of your mouth, throat, ears, and neck, followed by imaging or a sample if needed.

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow liquids, rapidly increasing swelling, or severe weakness. Contact a clinician soon for a persistent lump, coughing or voice changes that continue, or swelling with ongoing fever or night sweats. Do not repeatedly press the node, because this can irritate the area and make changes harder to judge.

Ask what might explain the location and texture, whether your mouth and throat need focused examination, which tests are appropriate, and what change should prompt earlier review.