Ask a doctor on the topic of Other questions to doctors

Swelling of the lymph node on the left side of the neck

April 29, 2016 | 35,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good evening,
for about 2 weeks, I have had a swollen lymph node on the left side of my neck below the ear. At the same time, I also had slight sore throat and a runny nose, so my family doctor prescribed me an antibiotic, which I took for 6 days as directed. The lymph node did shrink during the 6 days, but on the morning of the 7th day it was slightly painful again and larger. I should mention that a few days before, a basal cell carcinoma was removed from my nose. After showing the surgical site to my family doctor, I was told that the lymph node was likely swollen again due to the surgery, as the surgical site was also slightly red. This was two days ago. My question now is whether this could be the cause for the swelling again, and what other possible causes could there be? What diagnostic procedures need to be done? If it turns out that there is a serious condition behind this and it needs to be treated in the hospital, can I refuse to go to the hospital (as I have several pets) and can any necessary treatment be done on an outpatient basis? Since I have never had a swollen lymph node before, I am now quite worried. Thank you in advance.
Best regards.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good evening,

A swollen lymph node is almost always a result of a viral or bacterial infection. Therefore, it is quite likely that the red surgical site was an entry point for pathogens and caused the node to swell again.
Firstly, it is advisable to wait and see if the lymph node reduces in size within the next two weeks, which is expected. If it does not, one should examine the teeth, as an infection there is often the cause of such swelling, as well as pimples or minor skin infections.
If nothing is found, it is best to wait a few more weeks and possibly have a blood test done. You never need to go to the hospital for a swollen lymph node! If it remains solitary, something serious is highly unlikely.
Even if the node does not reduce in size (which is not expected) and you consider having it removed for examination, it can be done on an outpatient basis at a surgeon's practice.
So, there is really no need to worry, just give the lymph node some time. Please do not press on it, as this will keep it inflamed and prevent it from reducing in size.

All the best!

Sincerely, Dr. Höllering