What Causes Swollen Lymph Node?

Posted on Mon, 22 Sep 2014

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

Mon, 22 Sep 2014 Answered on

Thu, 16 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My daughter is complaining her lymph node on left side of her neck is a bit swollen and has dizziness. She just took the last pill ( z pack ) yesterday as she had a bad sinus infection. Her throat was red, ears plugged ect. She is now convinced she has cancer and is completey freaking out ( she is 13) I am trying to assure her this is due to her sickness and the meds will stay in her system for another week yet. Thoughts?

Answered by Dr. Roopa Hiremath (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Lymph node swelling is due to infection

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to Health care magic.

I understand your concern but please assure your daughter that neck lymph node swellings occur during upper respiratory tract infections like cold and sinus infections.

This swelling occurs in the lymph nodes that drain the infected area.

Moreover, malignant changes in lymph nodes is a chronic process that takes months to years to occur.

The lymph nodes in cancer become swollen, hard to touch and may become painful.

Please tell her that the lymph node swelling will reduce once the infection is under control.

I hope I have cleared your doubts.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar