#Lymph nodes swollen on the back neck skin#

At this stage, the body starts fighting the infection. Swollen lymph nodes are common in the early or acute stage of HIV infection. They usually return to their usual size once the infection clears. Lymph nodes that swell due to infection may be painful when a person touches them. Some common infections that may lead to swollen cervical lymph nodes include:Īdditional signs of infection depend on the specific illness but may include: The accumulation of white blood cells in the lymph nodes causes them to swell. The white blood cells then start to destroy the pathogens responsible for the infection. When an infection occurs somewhere in the body, the lymph nodes in that area fill with white blood cells. Infection is a common cause of swollen lymph nodes anywhere in the body. Many conditions can cause swollen cervical lymph nodes, each with its own symptoms.

pain or tenderness around the swollen nodes.

a general feeling of being unwell, known as malaise.

The precise symptoms that may occur with swollen lymph nodes will depend on the cause, but common symptoms of an infection include:

#Lymph nodes swollen on the back neck skin#

However, a doctor may be able to feel one or more bumps beneath the skin when examining the neck region. Lymph nodes can also become noticeable under the chin, under the arms, and around the groin, depending on where an infection occurs.Ī person may or may not be able to feel if their cervical lymph nodes are swollen. glandular fever ( mononucleosis or mono).inflammation due to hair dye use or tight hair braids.If they are bigger, this could be a sign of an infection or other health problem, such as: They are usually smaller than 1 centimeter in diameter. They can enlarge when the system is defending the body from a nearby infection.Ĭervical lymph nodes are in the front, sides, and back of the neck. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. Swollen lymph nodes can occur because of an infection, or they can be a sign of a more serious illness.Share on Pinterest Coronation Dental Specialty Group, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons If you feel an enlarged lymph node or you’re unsure, let your doctor know right away. Then check the vertical chain of lymph nodes along the inner upper thigh on both legs. To check the lymph nodes in your groin, use your fingers to feel the horizontal chain of lymph nodes along the groin crease on each side. Check the front and back borders of your armpit as well the inner border of your arm. Use the fingers on your opposite hand to feel the center of your armpit. To check the lymph nodes in your arms and armpits, remove your shirt and lift up one arm. Bring your elbows forward and hunch your shoulders when checking the lymph nodes above your collar bone. Tilt your head toward the side of your neck you’re checking to make it easier to feel for lymph nodes.

To check the lymph nodes in your head and neck, move your fingertips in a circular motion in front of and behind your ears, around your jaw, down the sides of your neck, and above your collar bone. An enlarged lymph node may feel like a pea or a grape, and it may feel tender. Lymph nodes are located in your head, neck, arms, armpits, and groin. Checking your lymph nodes once a month can help you detect any swelling that could indicate a medical issue.