What Is a Cervical Lymph Node? And Why Do They Swell?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body, forming a crucial part of the immune system. They act as filters, trapping foreign substances, damaged cells, and other harmful particles from the fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system. Within these nodes, specialized immune cells are housed, ready to identify and neutralize potential threats. This intricate network plays a central role in the body’s defense mechanisms, working to protect against various invaders.

Anatomy of Cervical Lymph Nodes

Cervical lymph nodes are a specific group of these immune structures located in the neck region. Around 300 of the body’s lymph nodes are found in the neck. These nodes are organized into various groups, including superficial and deep nodes, based on their precise location and the areas they drain. When healthy, cervical lymph nodes are typically small, often less than 1 centimeter in diameter, and may not be easily felt. They are generally soft and movable, blending seamlessly with the surrounding tissues.

How Cervical Lymph Nodes Function

Cervical lymph nodes serve as essential checkpoints for the lymphatic fluid draining from the head and neck. This fluid, known as lymph, collects waste products, cellular debris, and foreign particles from tissues. As lymph flows through the cervical nodes, immune cells within them, such as lymphocytes, identify and destroy pathogens like bacteria and viruses. These nodes filter lymph from areas including the scalp, face, ears, throat, and oral cavity. This filtering action helps prevent infections from spreading, allowing the immune system to mount a localized defense.

When Cervical Lymph Nodes Swell

When cervical lymph nodes become noticeably enlarged, a condition known as lymphadenopathy, it often indicates that the immune system is actively responding to a threat. The most frequent cause of swollen cervical lymph nodes is an infection, such as a common cold, strep throat, ear infection, or dental issues. In these cases, the nodes swell as immune cells multiply and accumulate to fight off the invading pathogens. The swelling is usually temporary and subsides as the underlying infection resolves, which can take a few weeks.

Other, less common causes of swollen cervical lymph nodes include inflammatory conditions, autoimmune diseases, or, in rare instances, cancer. Swollen nodes due to infection are often tender or painful to the touch, and may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, sore throat, or a runny nose. Certain characteristics of swollen nodes warrant medical evaluation.

Consult a healthcare provider if the swelling has no obvious cause, persists for more than two to four weeks, or continues to grow. Medical attention should also be sought if the swollen nodes feel hard, rubbery, or are fixed in place and do not move when pressed. Accompanying symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, prolonged fever, night sweats, or difficulty breathing or swallowing are also concerning signs. Swollen nodes located above the collarbone or in the armpit, especially without other signs of infection, can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.