Lymph nodes in the neck: where they are located, what they look like, and when they are enlarged

You have felt a lump on your neck or noticed one in your child. It may be an enlarged lymph node. Nodes enlarged due to infection usually shrink within 1–2 weeks.

Where the lymph nodes in the neck are located

Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. There are about 600 in total. They are part of the immune system: they help recognize and fight off infections.

In the neck, the nodes form a chain. Along the front sides, on both sides, and along the back of the neck. They are also present under the jaw and chin, behind the ears, and at the back of the head.

Normally, only the submandibular, axillary, and inguinal nodes can be felt. The rest are usually not palpable.

What enlarged lymph nodes in the neck look like

An enlarged node feels like a tender bump. It may be on one side of the neck or on both.

The normal size is up to 1 cm in diameter. In children, a node is considered enlarged if it is larger than 1 cm. Inguinal nodes are normally up to 1.5 cm.

Softer nodes are more often associated with infection or inflammation. Hard, stone-like nodes are a reason for evaluation. Mobility also matters: a node adherent to the tissues requires a doctor's attention.

Lymph node at the back of the neck and in the throat area

The posterior cervical nodes are located on both sides of the back of the neck. A chain of nodes also runs along the back of the neck.

The nodes under the jaw and at the front of the neck are located near the throat. Tonsillitis, a cold, and ear or throat infections are common causes of node enlargement.

The nodes above the collarbone are a separate area. Their enlargement is more often associated with more serious causes. If the nodes are enlarged above or below the collarbone, you need to see a doctor.

Lymph nodes in the neck in children

Small multiple nodules in children on the head and neck are usually found in viral diseases. Doctors call such small multiple nodules "shotty."

The threshold for a child is 1 cm. If the node is larger than 2 cm and there are changes on a chest X-ray, this requires clarification. Granulomatous processes or lymphoma are possible.

A lymph node in a child does not always mean something bad. You should see a doctor if the child's node is larger than 1 cm in diameter or does not shrink for several weeks.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

The most common cause is infections. A cold, flu, tonsillitis, otitis, infectious mononucleosis. Less commonly, tuberculosis, HIV, autoimmune diseases.

Malignant causes are rare. These are leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, metastases of other tumors.

Some medications also cause node enlargement. For example, anticonvulsants.

• Rapid and painful enlargement is more often associated with infection or trauma.
• Slow and painless enlargement is a reason to rule out a tumor.
• Night sweats, weight loss, and prolonged fever change the picture.
• Nodes above the collarbone require special attention.

How diagnosis is carried out and when a doctor is needed

The doctor examines all groups of nodes, not just the cervical ones. They ask when the enlargement appeared and whether the node hurts when pressed.

Blood tests may be ordered, including a complete blood count and liver function tests. Sometimes a node biopsy, X-ray, or CT of the chest and abdomen is done.

You should see a doctor if the node is growing or does not shrink within 1 week. If it is hard and does not move when pressed. With night sweats or a very high fever. If there are no other signs of illness.

Enlarged lymph nodes alone are not a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 if, along with enlarged nodes, you have difficulty swallowing or breathing.

This material is for reference. It does not replace a doctor's consultation — if you are worried, see a specialist.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer