Concerns About Persistent Swollen Lymph Node
Greetings. I'm a 23-year-old woman without any notable medical issues prior to this situation. In December, I discovered a swollen lymph node in my neck, which I believe is connected to an infection from a helix piercing I had done just four days earlier. By January, a month after I first observed the lymph node swelling, I consulted a medical professional. After examining the piercing, he determined it appeared infected and removed it, prescribing antibiotics as treatment. Although I completed the antibiotic course around three weeks ago, the swollen lymph node remains. The doctor recommended an ultrasound and an X-ray for further investigation, but unfortunately, financial constraints have prevented me from proceeding with those tests. For additional context, I had the piercing for about a year, and it never fully healed, remaining red throughout. I suspect it may have flared up in December, coinciding with the appearance of the swollen lymph node. Overall, I feel fine, which leaves me puzzled about the persistence of the swollen lymph node. Is it typical for a lymph node to remain swollen after finishing a course of antibiotics? To clarify, the lymph node is soft (similar to an inflatable tire, not hard) and can be moved around. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 10:30:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a swollen lymph node, especially after a recent infection. Persistent swelling can happen after an infection, but it’s important to keep monitoring it.
Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and can become swollen due to infections, such as one from a piercing. They can sometimes remain enlarged even after the infection has resolved, as they can take time to return to their normal size.
Since you’ve completed the antibiotics and are feeling generally fine, this is a positive sign, but it doesn’t completely rule out the need for further evaluation, especially since the lymph node has been swollen for a prolonged period.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Swollen Node: Keep an eye on the lymph node. If it starts to reduce in size over the next few weeks, that’s a good sign that your body is healing.
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Track Any Changes: Note any other symptoms or changes, such as new swellings, pain, fever, or fatigue, and write these down. If you notice any concerning changes, it can help to provide clear information if you seek medical advice later.
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Self-Care: Maintain good hygiene, especially around the area of the previous piercing. You can gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and consider warm compresses on the swollen lymph node to help with circulation and drainage.
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Consider Alternatives for Testing: If the swollen lymph node does not improve or if you start feeling unwell, it would be wise to explore alternative options for ultrasound or X-ray. Some clinics offer sliding scale fees based on income, or community health services might offer assistance.
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Stay Informed: Remain aware of any new symptoms. If the lymph node does not shrink after a few weeks or worsens, it would be important to seek medical attention again.
It’s a good idea to continue monitoring your health, and trusting your instincts is key. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further clarification, and take care!
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