Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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General health information

Enlarged lymph node

An enlarged lymph node is usually a reaction to a nearby infection, such as a cold, throat infection or skin wound. The node often becomes tender and then gets smaller again. A hard, growing, fixed or persistently enlarged node, especially with fever, night sweats or weight loss, needs investigation.

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  • Lymph nodes may enlarge because immune cells respond to infection, inflammation or another trigger.
  • Location, size, tenderness, movement, duration and changes matter more than a single measurement.
  • A node associated with a cold or throat infection may remain noticeable for some time after the infection has passed.
  • A hard, growing, fixed or unexplained node needs investigation; this does not automatically mean cancer.
  • Rapidly increasing neck swelling with breathing or swallowing problems is urgent. For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912.

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