Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that form a part of the body’s immune system. They function as filters, trapping harmful substances such as viruses, bacteria, and damaged cells before these can spread further into the body. They become active when the immune system responds to illness or infection. Often called “glands,” lymph nodes are distinct tissues and a normal component of human anatomy.
Where to Locate Neck Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are distributed throughout the body, with many clusters found in the head and neck region, making them accessible for examination. Common locations in the neck include areas directly under the jaw and chin, often referred to as submandibular or submental nodes. You can also find lymph nodes behind the ears, at the base of the skull, and along the sides of the neck, extending from behind the ears down to above the collarbone. These areas are common sites for checking because they drain fluid from the head and face, often reacting to infections in those regions.
How Normal Lymph Nodes Feel
Normal lymph nodes in the neck are typically small and often imperceptible to the touch. When felt, they are usually pea-sized or smaller, roughly 3-7 millimeters in diameter. These nodes usually have an oval or bean-shaped form.
Upon gentle palpation, a normal lymph node should feel soft, slightly firm, or rubbery, rather than hard or rigid. Normal lymph nodes are mobile; they should be easily movable or “rollable” under the skin, not fixed or matted to surrounding tissues.
They are generally not painful or tender to the touch. Furthermore, healthy lymph nodes are not visible through the skin. It is normal for individuals to occasionally feel small, soft, and movable nodes in their neck, which does not necessarily indicate an issue.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many instances of noticeable lymph nodes are harmless, certain characteristics warrant medical evaluation. Consult a doctor if a lymph node is noticeably larger than a pea or marble, particularly if it continues to grow. Also concerning are nodes that feel very hard, firm, or are fixed in place and do not move when pressed.
Persistent pain or tenderness in a lymph node, especially without an obvious cause like a recent infection, should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Other warning signs include accompanying symptoms such as unexplained fever, night sweats, or unintentional weight loss.
If a swollen lymph node remains enlarged for an extended period, typically more than two to four weeks, or continues to increase in size, it requires medical attention. Swelling that appears on only one side of the neck without a clear local cause, such as a localized infection, should also be evaluated.
Why Lymph Nodes Swell
Lymph nodes commonly become enlarged, or “swollen,” as a response of the immune system. The most frequent cause is an infection, whether viral (like the common cold or mononucleosis) or bacterial (like strep throat or skin infections).
When the body encounters pathogens, immune cells within the lymph nodes multiply and accumulate to fight the infection, leading to their temporary enlargement. This swelling indicates the immune system is actively working to filter out germs and waste products.
Inflammation from injuries or other processes can also cause lymph nodes to swell. Less common but more serious conditions can also cause lymph node swelling, including autoimmune diseases or, in rare instances, certain cancers. Such serious causes are significantly less common than benign infections.