Increased size of a lymph node in the neck, armpit or groin
Usually larger than the corresponding node on the other side of the body
Normal nodes are usually < ½ inch across (size of pea or baked bean)
Nodes with a viral infection are usually ½ to 1 inch across
Nodes with a bacterial infection are usually > 1 inch across (size of a quarter)
See More Appropriate Topic
If swollen node is in the neck and sore throat is the main symptom, see SORE THROAT
Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If
Your child looks or acts very sick
Node in the neck causes difficulty with breathing, swallowing or drinking
Fever > 104°F (40°C)
Overlying skin is red
Rapid increase in size of node over several hours
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 and 4) If
You think your child needs to be seen
1 or more inches in size by measurement
Very tender to the touch
In the neck and also has a sore throat
Interferes with moving the neck, arm or leg
Fever lasts > 3 days
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If
You have other questions or concerns
Large nodes at multiple locations
Cause of the swollen node is unknown
Age under 1 month old (newborn)
Parent Care at Home
Mildly swollen lymph node and you don’t think your child needs to be seen
Home Care Advice for Small Lymph Nodes
Reassurance for Normal Nodes. If you have discovered a pea-sized or bean-sized node (smaller than ½ inch), this is a normal lymph node. Don’t look for lymph nodes, because you can always find some (especially in the neck and groin).
Reassurance for Swollen Nodes from a Viral Infection: Viral throat infections and colds can cause lymph nodes in the neck to double in size. Slight enlargement and mild tenderness means the lymph node is fighting the infection and doing a good job.
Fever or Pain Medicine: Give acetaminophen or
ibuprofen as needed for fever > 102°F (39o C) or pain. Otherwise no treatment is needed.
Avoid Squeezing: Don't squeeze lymph nodes because it may keep them from shrinking back to normal size. Tell your child not to fidget with them.
Contagiousness: Swollen lymph nodes are not contagious.
Expected Course: After the infection is gone, the nodes slowly return to normal size over 2 to 4 weeks. However, they won't ever completely disappear.
Call Your Doctor If
Node enlarges to > 1 inch in size
Node larger than ½ inch persists > 1 month
Your child becomes worse or develops any of the “Call Your Doctor” symptoms
