Is a persistently swollen lymph node something to worry about?

Question

The lymph node in my right armpit is seriously swollen and has been more or less so for over a year. My doctors seem unconcerned. Is it likely that this could be serious?

Answer 1

Hi.
I would not worry too much if my Doctors said it was nothing.
Here are some pointers to know if there is trouble.

1. Does the lymph node hurt?
2. Does it move around when you try to squeeze it?
3. Is there any discharge?
4. Do you feel like there are nodes in it when you try to feel it?
5. Have you located any lymph nodes anywhere else on your body?



If you answer YES to No 1, then you should be worried and so should your Doc.
If you answer NO to No 1 but answer YESto all the other questions then you should be worried.

You can go to the lab and they do an Icision and Drainage and try to culture the contents.

Answer 2

Find a new doc. Lymph nodes are swollen for a reason, what ever the reason. It is not normal for them to be swollen.

Answer 3

Lymph Nodes swell when infection is present and your body is trying to fight off something. Get a second opinion or outright ask your MD why he is not concerned.

Answer 4

It may be nothing or it may be something to worry about. Assuming your doc took a complete history and did a physical exam and you don't have any nagging symptoms then you are probably ok....but it never hurts to get a second opinion, especially since it bothers you so much.

Answer 5

find another doctor he or she needs to get you mammagram and maybe a simple dose of a major anti-biotics it could just be a infection showing up as that but why chance it or an mri and some good blood work an elevated white count could confirm an infection or they may have to biopsi

Answer 6

get a second opinion, that's not normal