Hi. I'm 22 and this lymph node has been plaguing my life for nearly two years now. 

I first noticed one swollen occipital lymph node in July 2019. And I ignored it for the best part of a year. I knew that glands swelled up for many reasons, therefore I didn't worry; even though it was very persistent. I honestly forgot about it for a long time, then in March 2020 I consulted my doctor about a different problem and decided to mention the node. I had blood tests which revealed all types of my white blood cells were raised, my reds were large, and I had "inflammation" and "infection" markers. I was sent for an ultra sound 8 months later which revealed my occipital lymph node was swollen by 1mm. I was told I needed a biopsy by my GP and was referred to Haemotology at my local hospital. My hospital told me I did NOT need a biopsy, which was very confusing. And honestly, this brings us to the present day in terms of answers and/or treatment. 

I have had no further treatment for my node. No antibiotics, no referrals elsewhere. My next Haemotology appointment is in 5 months and they have basically already told me I have no business there. Throughout all this, I was diagnosed with B12 deficiency and am currently being tested for Pernicious Anemia. I also have Hypothyroidism. I have been told that all of these things point towards the swollen node, however with treatment of said conditions the node has not decreased in size. Occasionally it increases in size and becomes sore, which has been an occasional occurence these past 2 years. 

I am angry because I was told I needed a biopsy but apparently, I didn't. I believed this for SEVERAL months, and then my first appointment at Haemotology, I was told something very different. On my second visit to Haemotology, my Consultant said to me my next appointment would be elsewhere, as people in this clinic recieve chemotherapy and that it was "not appropiate for me to be here". As if I asked to be there. As if I wasn't referred there. As if I was asking to be there. 

By the way, my GP who referred me was concered about Lymphoma.

So, my result is: wait several months to see if Hypothyroidism and Pernicious Anemia treatment changes my blood tests. I really, really hope they do. Because I am so confused and I feel really ill and I just want my life back.