Swollen lymph nodes on one side of my neck

I've discovered that two of my lymph nodes on the left side of my neck have swollen this week. I went straight to my GP who was unconcerned but arranged for me to have a full blood count and organ function check - everything came back fine. I am due to meet the ENT consultant on Thursday, again just to be on the safe side. I had a sore throat several weeks ago and I have been given some amoxicillin this week for a possible tooth infection so hoping that one of these are the causes of the swollen nodes.

I'm really struggling to hang onto the positives and was wondering if I am wrong to be worrying so much. I have become a bit of a hypochondriac since our little boy became ill with Mastoiditis over Christmas, you fear the worst at every turn.

  • Hello there and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about the symptoms you are having and that you are undergoing some tests to make sure everything is okay.

    It is understandable to be worried but most of the time lymph nodes are harmless and swollen because of infection (past or present) but it is reassuring the doctor is being thorough by arranging further tests.

    Try not to over think things if you can. Waiting and not knowing is unsettling but hopefully you will know more soon.

    Hang in there and keep yourself busy with other things as this can help.

    Do get back if you need to and you can always call us on 0808 800 4040, Monday-Friday 9-5 if you like.

    All the best

    Naomi

  • Hi,

    Thank you for getting back to me. I am trying to keep as busy as possible and our little one keeps my mind focused on him . I've had a sore throat since last night and a few aches in my neck - all on the same side so hopefully it's just an infection.

    Thanks again, Naomi.

    Ben

  • Hi Naomi,

     I have had ultrasounds and a camera in my throat, all came back good - just a reactive node. The nodes seemed to settle right down again until three weeks ago when I had a bit of a cold for a couple of days. Since then, my parotid glands on both sides has felt swollen. My GP has put it down to stress but how long should I wait before asking them to check it again?

    Many thanks,

    Ben

  • Hi there Ben and thanks for getting back in touch

    I'm pleased that all went well at your ENT appointment and everything came back fine.

    Some people's lymph nodes are more sensitive to infections that cause them to swell (react) when an infection occurs. The fact that you have had a cold is probably the cause for this and hopefully the swelling will settle in the next couple of weeks.

    If of course it doesn't or you notice any other symptoms get back in touch with your GP but hopefully things will return to normal soon.

    Try not to worry

    Take care

    Naomi

  • Hi again Naomi,

    Thank you for responding again. It really helps to have this available to so many worried people.

    I'm going to have another ultrasound within the next two weeks, and have had more blood tests today. 
     

    Thanks again,

    Ben