Axilla lymph nodes

Hi I had a breast clinic appointment on Monday as I found a lump in my breast. Mammogram and scan found breast tissue fine but doctor said I have pronounced axilla lymph nodes in lower left same side as lump. But because I had my covid jab 2 weeks ago she said she doesn't know if it's because of that and to wait 4 weeks then go back to gp if still there. They have discharged me, so now I'm just going to feel like I'm being a hypochondriac if they are still there and I go back. But my head is all over the place worrying about probably nothing 

  • Hi Na-41.

    Swollen lymph nodes is a known side-effect of the Covid jab, and it seems that a number of breast clinics are finding patients with swollen nodes, so you're not alone.

    Under normal circumstances, when lymph nodes are reacting to an infection, they usually subside and settle down within 4 weeks, and most doctors suggest you should see your GP if they haven't settled after 6 weeks.  This means the advice you've been given to wait 4 weeks before seeing your GP makes perfect sense.

    I know how difficult it is not to worry, but a quick search shows that there are a lot of women in a similar position to you after their Covid jabs.  I guess it's what happens when they roll out a vaccine to millions of people in a short time.  Put a cross on the calendar for four weeks time, and put this out of your mind until that time is up.  Then check for the nodes and I expect they'll be gone.

    Meanwhile I have my second Covid jab in two weeks time....