Fear of lymphoma

Hi, I’m not sure if people still use this or if anyone will even see this but I’m 18 years old and have had a swollen lymph node in my neck for 2 years. It’s moveable sometimes tender sometimes not but I suffer with severe health anxiety so I touch it all the time (making it more swollen) iv been to the doctors a few times last year I had a ultrasound and everything came back fine they said there’s nothing sinister there. The. In April of this year I went to see a doctor and he just gave it a feel and said again it’s fine it’s moveable it’s not bigger than it should be. But iv had no doctor explain the causes or anything. Iv had blood work done this year too and everything came back perfectly but if I had lymphoma would something even come up on routine blood work ? I go in a cycle of going to the doctors getting told it’s fine leaving feeling good then a few weeks later I go back to stressing. Is it normal to have a lymph node last so long even when nothings wrong ?

  • A very warm welcome to the forum demi101aaron, although I'm sorry for the worry your swollen lymph node is causing.

    It must be very difficult to live with health anxiety, even more so when it's severe, but it's good you've been getting the lymph node checked regularly and that you've had good results.

    I'm not sure from your post if you are receiving any help or support to deal with your health anxiety, but if not, do be sure to discuss this with your GP as they'll be in the best position to help. The NHS have some good tips for managing health anxiety as well.

    If you think it will help, you're very welcome to discuss the situation with your lymph node with one of our cancer nurses on 0808 800 4040. Their phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do all that they can to help. 

    Our members know how stressful it can be to be in this position, so you are not alone, and I'm sure it won't be long until some of them stop by to offer their support and advice.

    I hope my reply helps and you're able to get the answers, information and reassurance you're seeking soon.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator