When to worry about swollen glands with glandular fever

Glandular fever can cause lymph nodes in the neck to become enlarged and tender, often alongside a sore throat, fever, and pronounced tiredness. Swelling can take time to settle after the infection improves. The size or tenderness alone does not establish the diagnosis, and a clinician may need to consider other infections or causes if the pattern is unusual.

Rest, drink regularly, and choose pain relief that is suitable for you. Avoid repeatedly prodding the glands. If glandular fever is suspected or confirmed, follow advice about avoiding strenuous activity and contact sports until a clinician says it is safe. Record fever, throat symptoms, abdominal pain, and changes in the glands so your review is more useful.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing or swallowing, severe abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, or sudden collapse. Seek prompt medical advice for dehydration, worsening throat swelling, persistent high fever, severe weakness, yellowing of the skin, or glands that become hard, fixed, or steadily larger. Arrange review if symptoms are not improving or tiredness is stopping normal activities.

Ask whether testing is needed, how to manage throat pain and hydration, and when normal exercise can resume. Explain any abdominal discomfort, medicines taken, exposure to illness, and whether the glands are changing in size or tenderness.