How to Tell If You Have Swollen Lymph Nodes: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Look For

Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign that your body is responding to an infection, inflammation, or in some cases, a more serious underlying condition. These small, bean-shaped glands play a crucial role in your immune system by filtering harmful substances and producing white blood cells to fight off illness. Knowing how to identify swollen lymph nodes can help you determine when it's time to seek medical advice.

Common Areas Where Lymph Nodes Can Be Detected

Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, but certain areas are more accessible for self-examination. Key locations include:

Just in front of the ears (preauricular)
Behind the ears (postauricular)
Beneath the jaw (submandibular)
Along the front and back of the neck (anterior and posterior cervical)
Above the collarbone (supraclavicular)
Under the arms (axillary)
Inside the elbows (epitrochlear)
In the groin area (inguinal)
Behind the knees (popliteal)

Regularly checking these regions—especially during times of illness—can help you notice changes early on.

Visual Clues: What to Look for During a Self-Exam

Visual inspection is the first step in identifying potential lymph node swelling. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror and examine the skin over common lymph node areas. Look for any visible lumps, bulges, or areas where the skin appears raised. In some cases, the overlying skin may appear red, warm, or discolored—signs often associated with active inflammation or infection. While not all swollen nodes are visible, noticeable protrusions can be an early warning sign worth investigating further.

Physical Examination: What You Can Feel

Palpation, or touch-based examination, is one of the most effective ways to detect lymph node enlargement. Gently press the areas listed above using your fingertips. Normal lymph nodes are usually small (less than 1 cm), soft, and difficult to feel. However, when they swell, they become more prominent.

Characteristics of Benign (Non-Cancerous) Swelling

Swollen nodes caused by infections—such as colds, sore throats, or minor skin wounds—are typically soft or rubbery to the touch. They may be tender or painful when pressed, which is a good indicator of an active immune response. These nodes are usually smooth, movable, and isolated to one region. Multiple enlarged nodes may appear, but they generally don't stick together or to surrounding tissues.

Warning Signs of Serious Conditions

In contrast, lymph nodes affected by more serious conditions like cancer (e.g., lymphoma or metastatic tumors) or tuberculosis often feel different. They tend to be firm, hard, or even rock-like. Importantly, they may be fixed in place—meaning they don't move under the skin—and might cluster together, forming a mass. Unlike infection-related swelling, these nodes are typically painless, which can make them easy to overlook. Any persistent, painless lump lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

When to See a Doctor

While most cases of lymph node swelling resolve on their own within a few weeks, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. Seek care if you experience:

Lymph nodes larger than 1.5 cm in diameter
Nodes that continue to grow or remain swollen for over two weeks
Hard, irregular, or immovable lumps
Accompanying symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever
Swelling in multiple areas of the body (generalized lymphadenopathy)

Early diagnosis is key, especially when dealing with systemic illnesses.

Tips for Monitoring Your Lymph Health

Becoming familiar with your body's normal state makes it easier to spot changes. Perform gentle monthly checks, especially after recovering from an illness. Keep a journal noting the location, size, and tenderness of any lumps. This information can be valuable during doctor visits. Remember, occasional swelling is normal—but consistency, duration, and texture matter most.

Understanding how to assess your lymph nodes empowers you to take charge of your health. By combining visual observation with careful palpation and recognizing red flags, you can detect potential issues early and get timely medical support when needed.