Where are your lymph nodes located in your neck?
Mia Horton
Updated on May 21, 2026
Neck (there is a chain of lymph nodes on either side of the front of the neck, both sides of the neck, and down each side of the back of the neck) Under the jaw and chin.
What does a swollen lymph node in neck feel like?
People can check whether their lymph nodes are swollen by gently pressing around the area, such as the side of the neck. Swollen lymph nodes will feel like soft, round bumps, and they may be the size of a pea or a grape. They might be tender to the touch, which indicates inflammation.What causes swollen lymph nodes in neck?
Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer. Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off infections.How do you know if lymph nodes in neck are swollen?
With your fingertips, in a gentle circular motion feel the lymph nodes shown. Always check your nodes in this order. Check both sides for comparison. If you have an enlarged lymph node it may feel like a swelling the size of a pea, sometimes they can be larger.What are the signs that you have a cancerous lymph node?
What Are Signs and Symptoms of Cancerous Lymph Nodes?
- Lump(s) under the skin, such as in the neck, under the arm, or in the groin.
- Fever (may come and go over several weeks) without an infection.
- Drenching night sweats.
- Weight loss without trying.
- Itching skin.
- Feeling tired.
- Loss of appetite.
How to check your lymph nodes
What is the most common early symptom of lymphoma?
The most common sign of lymphoma is a lump or lumps, usually in the neck, armpit or groin. These lumps are swollen lymph nodes, sometimes known as 'glands'. Usually, they're painless. Fatigue is different to normal tiredness.Does Covid make your neck swell?
Sudden neck swelling with rash may be a coincidental presentation, but, in the pandemic context, it is most likely a direct or indirect complication of COVID-19.What causes swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck?
The glands on either side of the neck, under the jaw, or behind the ears commonly swell when you have a cold or sore throat. Glands can also swell following an injury, such as a cut or bite, near the gland or when a tumor or infection occurs in the mouth, head, or neck.Can stress cause lymph nodes to swell?
It appears that anxiety can cause swollen lymph nodes, but the reason isn't clear because there isn't a medical connection between lymph nodes and stress. The reality is that, in many cases it's not that simple. Lymph nodes themselves cannot swell as a result of stress.Are cancerous lymph nodes painful?
This being said, leukaemia or lymphoma (another type of blood cancer) can cause painful lymph nodes on occasion. This is because they can grow big enough to press down on surrounding nerves or other organs, causing pain.How do you treat swollen lymph nodes in neck?
If your swollen lymph nodes are tender or painful, you might get some relief by doing the following:
- Apply a warm compress. Apply a warm, wet compress, such as a washcloth dipped in hot water and wrung out, to the affected area.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. ...
- Get adequate rest.