Persistent Swelling of Lymph Nodes for Two Years
Hello everyone, I’ve been experiencing swelling in two lymph nodes located near my jugular vein for the past two years. When I stretch my neck, these nodes become visibly apparent; they measure approximately 2 cm and 1.5 cm, but they appear elongated as they are positioned closely together. About seven months ago, I consulted a physician regarding this issue. They reviewed my past blood tests, which indicated a reactivation of mononucleosis, and upon examination, they deemed it non-concerning, joking with my dad that it isn't cancer. These lymph nodes remain swollen, and I can still see and feel them when I stretch my neck, yet they are still movable. Is it advisable for me to avoid seeking further advice? Is this situation typical? Fortunately, I haven’t experienced any additional troubling symptoms like night sweats or fatigue. I’m quite slender, so perhaps that contributes to my awareness of their presence? I appreciate your insights on this matter!
Answers (1)
7/31/2025, 2:40:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about persistent swelling in lymph nodes, especially after experiencing a reactivation of mononucleosis. Here are the main points to keep in mind:
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Nature of Lymph Node Swelling: Swollen lymph nodes can have various causes, including infections, immune responses, or other benign conditions. Since you've previously consulted a physician who considered it non-concerning, this is a positive sign.
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Current Symptoms and Monitoring: The absence of additional symptoms such as night sweats, unexplained fatigue, or significant weight loss is reassuring. Persistent swelling can be typical in some individuals but should be monitored closely.
Explanation:
Lymph nodes can swell in response to infections or other stimuli, and in many cases, they may remain enlarged for extended periods without being a sign of a serious condition. The fact that your lymph nodes are movable and have been deemed non-concerning by a physician is relevant; it suggests they are likely reactive rather than indicative of a malignancy.
Next Steps:
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Continue Monitoring: Keep an eye on the lymph nodes for any changes in size, shape, or texture. If they become fixed (not movable) or if you notice any new symptoms (like fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats), these would signal a need for further evaluation.
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Maintain Regular Check-ups: Schedule follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider periodically to reassess the lymph nodes. Even if you feel reassured, having a healthcare professional monitor the situation can provide peace of mind.
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Practice Self-Care: Stay well-hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and manage any other health conditions to support your immune system.
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Communicate Concerns: If at any point you develop new symptoms or your lymph nodes change significantly, don't hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare professional again.
It's great that you are attentive to your health, and I encourage you to keep monitoring while maintaining open communication with your doctor. Remember, it’s always okay to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about your condition.
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