Is a swollen lymph node always serious?

No. A swollen lymph node is often a normal sign your body is fighting an infection, like a cold, sore throat, or ear infection.

Usually less concerning:

• Tender or painful
• Soft and movable
• Comes with infection symptoms
• Shrinks over a few weeks

Get it checked soon if it:

• Feels hard, fixed, or rubbery
• Keeps getting bigger or lasts more than 2–4 weeks
• Appears without an obvious illness
• Comes with fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
• Is above the collarbone

Seek urgent care if neck swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow.