What Causes Swollen And Painful Lymph Nodes On Neck?

Posted on Wed, 22 Jan 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 22 Jan 2014 Answered on

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a swollen and painful lymph node on the back of my neck, painful neck stiffness, no fever, no rash, heat relieves somewhat, not enough. I also have poorly controlled Type II Diabetes, have been having a bad reaction to Cymbalta (which is resolving itself today) - which I take for Fibromyalgia and Diabetic Neuropathy.

Answered by Dr. Rahul Tawde (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Causes to swollen&painful lymph-node on neck... Detailed Answer: Hi, I have read your medical history and feel sorry for the health issues you are facing. Given your medical history of swollen and painful lymph-node on the back of your neck, it could be related to: - lipoma (most probably infected) - hair abscess (carbuncle/folliculitis) - arthritis As there are many different causes and further tests to be run, I'd suggest to consult a dermatologist as soon as possible in order to determine the right diagnosis and get proper treatment in time. If abscess, you might need a course of oral antibiotic and drainage of the pus. Meanwhile, if lipoma, it should be surgically removed as it is causing pain to you. I also suggest to send a sample for further biopsy evaluation. At the end, the very first thing is to identify the origin of the swollen lymph-node (as mentioned earlier); then, to decide for the treatment and further follow up. All the best! Dr.Bardha

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T