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Enlarged lymph node in the right side of my neck

AndyS64
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Hello everyone, thank you for reading my post. I found a lump on the right side of my neck just three days ago although I have no idea how long it's been there. I saw my GP yesterday and he was absolutely brilliant. He did a thorough examination and found another lesser enlarged node in the left hand side of my neck.The lump in the right side is 2cm big. I don't know how big the left hand side one is as the doctor didn't say.  There was no evidence of any other enlarged nodes anywhere in my body. I have no other symptoms at all and I haven't been unwell at all recently. I've been referred for an ultrasound scan of my neck but not urgently and that appointment will come in due course. I've had bloods done today for Full blood count, B12 and ferritin, Urea and electrolytes, CRP and thyroid function ( I'm on thyroxine for an underactive thyroid gland) I had a covid booster on 28 September and a flu jab on 12 October with no issues at all.

I am however, scared almost witless at the prospect of this being cancer. The absence of any other symptoms isn't really reassuring me as I'm thinking if it's cancer it has to start somewhere and that might be the swollen nodes in my neck. 

I keep crying and then trying to focus on positive things but it's so hard! I would be so grateful for any help.

Thank you

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    It can be a worry to notice a change in our bodies but remember most lumps and bumps won't be cancer so don't over think this too much for now.

    You have done the right thing in seeing your GP and it sounds like they have been very thorough assessing you and arranging some tests to find out more.

    Lymph nodes are commonly swollen because of a recent or past infection and likewise vaccinations can also cause these to swell.

    The doctor will get the blood results sent over to them once there in and if there are any concerns will speak to you about them and what also may need to happen next. However in the same breath if you start noticing symptoms or the lumps increasing ore more appearing let your GP know.

    Easier said than done but try not to worry and take each day as it comes. The NHS site every mind matters have some helpful tips here for managing worry that may be useful to look at. People also say keeping busy and your mind on other things can also help to pass the time.

    I hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay for you.

    Take care

    Naomi

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Naomi

    Hi Naomi

    Thank you for your reassuring words. 

    My blood results are all completely normal thankfully! I'll hopefully get the appointment through soon for the ultrasound scan and that should tell me what is going on with my lymph nodes. It's been a very worrying few days but I am extremely relieved that my bloods are ok! 

    Thank you again 

    Andrea

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