Concerns About Two Lymph Nodes in My Neck
Hello everyone! I'm a 14-year-old guy currently experiencing a couple of lymph nodes on my neck. The first one on the lower right side has been noticeable for approximately two and a half months now. While I can't definitively say if it has increased in size, I do know it has not diminished. The second one, which I discovered about a month ago, seems like it might have gotten larger, though again, I’m not completely certain. Both nodes are slightly smaller than grapes, but that’s a rough estimate since it’s challenging to gauge their exact size. They are movable, feel soft to the touch, and are not tender. The initial lymph node that I found was examined by a doctor around 4 to 5 weeks ago. He examined it and suggested we could skip further tests as he was quite confident it was simply a lymph node. However, the second one hasn't been looked at yet, but it feels just as the first one does. I've had these for some time, and they did not appear in conjunction with any illness, which makes me anxious that they could be cancerous or indicative of a more serious condition. I’m uncertain about the next steps to take, so if anyone has advice or questions, please feel free to reach out!
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 9:00:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about lymph nodes, especially when they're present for an extended period. The presence of lymph nodes in your neck can be normal, as they're part of your immune system's response to various factors. Given the details you've shared, let's break down the key points and next steps.
Main Points
- Persistent lymph nodes, particularly if they are soft, movable, and non-tender, are often benign (non-cancerous).
- You were already evaluated by a doctor who assessed the first lymph node and felt confident about its benign nature.
- Monitoring the situation is important, especially with the new lymph node.
Explanation
Lymph nodes can swell for various reasons, including infections, inflammation, and sometimes, more serious conditions. In your case, since these nodes have been there for a while, and one was previously evaluated, it sounds like they are not causing concern for your doctor. Their soft, movable, and non-tender characteristics are typically reassuring signs.
However, it’s entirely normal to feel unsure and concerned, especially when there are multiple nodes. It’s good to stay attentive and monitor any changes.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on both lymph nodes. Note if they change size, become hard, or if you start to feel symptoms such as fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
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Follow-Up Appointment: Given the second lymph node has not been evaluated, it would be wise to schedule a follow-up visit with your doctor. This is especially important since it's been about a month since discovering the second node.
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Document Changes: Keep a journal of any changes you notice, including size, tenderness, or any related symptoms. This can help your doctor assess the situation more accurately during your visit.
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Stay Informed: Learn about the common causes of lymph node enlargement to help ease your mind, focusing on benign causes like infections or allergies, which are the most common.
Reassurance
It's natural to worry, especially as a teenager, but many conditions that cause lymph nodes to swell are not serious. Remember that your doctor evaluated the situation and felt it was nothing to worry about. Following up will keep you informed and help ease your concerns. You're actively engaging with your health, which is a positive step!
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