Multiple neck lymph nodes for over a year

Hi all,

 

I'm just posting here mostly out of curiosity but also mild concern - for about 2 years now I've had an increasing number of lymph nodes in my neck enlarge and not shrink back down. Initially I went to my doctor in feb 2020 over one that was enlarged and wouldn't go away and I had a blood test which showed nothing worrying at all. I rang again in summer 2020 and my doctor told me that it's most likely my immune system being super reactive since I'm young (23) and exposure to illnesses can cause this. Fast forward to now and I have many lymph nodes enlarged in my neck. Most of them are very very mobile, there's one at the base of my skull on the left side which is quite solid. I'm basically just wondering if I should be worried by their persistence? They haven't grown much in size but they've increased a lot in quantity. 
 

I should note I do also have quite inflamed skin around my higher back, neck and scalp which are very much eczema related and do cause a lot of scabs etc. Could that be a cause seeing as that is a very lasting issue in that area? I've had issues with worrying myself sick over "lump" issues so I'm here just looking for advice from anyone who might know more?

 

Thank you :)

  • Hello louchlo0, 

    I think given that these enlarged lymph nodes in the neck have increased a lot in quantity since you last spoke to the doctor, it would give you reassurance perhaps to go back to your GP and mention all this. It would be a good opportunity to bring up the fact that you have this inflamed skin around your higher back, neck and scalp. You could also consider seeking a second opinion if you'd like to talk to another doctor about this. 

    I hope that you get this sorted very soon and that you get some definite answers and clarity on all this.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator