Swollen lymph nodes-worried

Hi, I recently can feel swollen lymph nodes in my neck right under my jaw on both sides, they seem to be painless and fairly moveable but are slightly visible to the naked eye when I lift my jaw, I went on a Google rampage and am really worried, I don't really get pain when I laugh or breath deeply tho neither do I cough blood, as it's winter I have the occasional cough, I'm really worried that even tough I'm only 18, it's somehing serious and I even went to my GP who said that he can't feel anything bad last time he checked, it's been 2 weeks since then and I went to my GP again and still he tells me he can't see anything wrong, this time not checking my lymph nodes, it's driving me crazy, the lymph nodes feel firm but rubbery and relatively moveable, I can't really detect them growing.

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry but we are unable to tell you if there is anything serious going on, but I really do think you should be reassured by the doctors you have seen. Can I please suggest that the best thing to do now is to stop looking and feeling these lymph nodes for a few weeks, perhaps assess them again after Christmas. If they are still causing you concern then, go back and see your GP about it.

    Lymph nodes that become swollen are for most people nothing serious. They can get bigger because of infection, and stay like that for some time after the infection has gone. 

    I can appreciate that this is causing you some anxiety, but if you do find that you are worrying a lot please do speak with someone at home or a trusted friend about it, your GP can help too.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline