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Why do lymph nodes hurt but not swollen?
What causes lymph node pain?
Why do lymph nodes swell up?
Sep 12, 2023 · Introduction: Have you ever experienced that odd sensation of having painful lymph nodes without any noticeable swelling? It’s puzzling, and you may wonder what could potentially be causing this discomfort. In this blog post, we will explore the intriguing topic of why lymph nodes can hurt but not swell.
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Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area.
Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice:
•Tenderness and pain in the lymph nodes
•Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodes
Depending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:
•Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection
Some swollen lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying condition, such as a minor infection, gets better. See your doctor if you're concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes:
•Have appeared for no apparent reason
•Continue to enlarge or have been present for two to four weeks
•Feel hard or rubbery, or don't move when you push on them
•Are accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss
Seek immediate medical care if you're having difficulty swallowing or breathing.
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Lymph nodes are small, round or bean-shaped clusters of cells. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders.
Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause.
Many conditions increase the risk of swollen lymph nodes. Factors that increase the risk of having these conditions include:
•Older age. Aging increases the risk of getting infections, immune system disorders and cancer.
•High-risk behaviors. Having sex without protection and injecting illicit drugs increases the risk of infections such as HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
•Weakened immune system. This can be from an illness or a medicine that suppresses the immune system. Having a weakened immune system increases the risk of infections.
If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn't treated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.
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By Mayo Clinic Staff
January 10, 2024
1.Fletcher RH. Evaluation of peripheral lymphadenopathy in adults. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 3, 2019.
2.Jameson JL, et al., eds. Enlargement of lymph nodes and spleen. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 20th ed. The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2018. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Sept. 3, 2019.
Mar 25, 2024 · 7 most common cause (s) Skin Abscess. Fibromyalgia. Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Lymph node inflammation behind the ear. Acute thyroiditis. Retropharyngeal abscess. Enlarged Lymph Nodes in the Neck. Neck pain quiz. Take a quiz to find out what's causing your pain. Take neck pain quiz. Neck pain along the lymph nodes symptoms.
Apr 3, 2023 · Takeaway. The lymph nodes in your neck and other parts of your body can be swollen for years, but not be a sign of cancer. You might have a common cold or throat infection, or another health...
Jan 4, 2018 · Causes. Symptoms. Diagnosis. Treatment. What is lymph node inflammation? Lymph nodes are small, oval-shaped organs that contain immune cells to attack and kill foreign invaders, such as...
Jun 29, 2022 · You can’t think of or discern a reason why your lymph nodes are swollen. Also be aware of other persistent symptoms you may be experiencing along with the swollen lymph nodes, such as: Fever; Chills; Night sweats; Loss of appetite; Unexplained weight loss; Non-healing sores in the mouth; Ear pain; Cough that produces blood; Blood-tinged mucus
