Swollen lymph nodes

Dear nurses I am awaiting my USS on the 15th March, my nodes have been swollen for 5 weeks now, came on suddenly with no signs of infection snd no infection markers in blood test, had initial 2WW appt with ENT we ho has referred for scan, my query is that the lumps i feel do not alter but some days my neck area feels more swollen than other days, this is only on one side, after 1-2 days the boggy swelling reduces but the nodes remain swollen, would this be more indicative of reactive lymph nodes? The wait is stressing ….although really appreciate all this is less than 3 weeks from seeing gp so nhs has been amazing! Thanks 

  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear that you are having investigations for swollen lymph glands and I can understand how unsettling this must be for you.

    It is really only the ultrasound that will help to give the ENT doctor an indication as to the cause. If they do see an area that needs to be looked at in more detail then they may decide to do a biopsy.

    We are often asked to give an opinion about the cause of different symptoms and it really is only the doctors involved in your care that can get to the bottom of what may be causing them.

    Your lymph glands act as a filter for your body and even though you may not have been aware of an infection, this may be a reason to explain why they are swollen.

    Try and keep an open mind. I am glad that you have not waited too long to see the specialist but try if you can not to overthink it all for now. You may find it helpful to keep yourself busy and your mind distracted until you know more.

    You are more then welcome to ring and speak to one of the helpline nurses. We are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040.

    All the best,

    Catherine