Swollen lymph nodes, those tender lumps under your jaw, behind your ears, and along your neck, are usually your body’s frontline defense reacting to an infection or inflammation. While most lymph node swelling accompanies common ailments and subsides on its own, persistent, unusually large, or hard nodes can signal a more serious condition. Recognizing when typical reactive swelling crosses the line into something requiring professional evaluation is key to ensuring timely care and peace of mind. Read on to learn when a persistent or unusual lump might warrant a closer look by one of OAT’s specialists.
Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT) is the premier ear, nose, and throat practice in Nashville and Middle Tennessee, with nearly a century of service to the local community. As a comprehensive ENT and allergy clinic, our board-certified doctors expertly evaluate and treat swollen lymph nodes, infections, tumors, thyroid issues, and more. Whether you suspect seasonal allergies or an underlying infection, our team offers advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to get you back to feeling your best.
What Causes Lymph Node Swelling?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that filter bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from infiltrating your body. Lymph nodes are located in clusters throughout the body, but the most visible glands are located in the neck. When these nodes swell, they can cause major discomfort and affect your breathing. Common triggers for swollen lymph nodes include:
Infections: Viral illnesses, throat infections, or ear infections can easily inflame nodes in the neck.
Allergic Reactions: Seasonal or food allergies can trigger localized swelling.
Immune Disorders: Conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis sometimes cause generalized lymph node enlargement.
Malignancies: Though less common, lymphoma or metastatic cancers can present themselves as persistent, painless neck lumps.
Swollen Lymph Nodes in Children
Consider visiting a pediatric ENT doctor if:
The swelling doesn’t go down after a couple of weeks, or it increases in size.
The lymph node feels very hard or doesn’t move freely under the skin when pressed by your fingers.
Your child has difficulty swallowing or breathing due to the lump.
The area around the lymph node is red, warm, or painful to touch.
Your child develops other symptoms, like high fever or weight loss.
If you’re concerned about your child’s neck lump, contact Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee, the trusted pediatric ENT and allergy clinic in Nashville, for a thorough evaluation and peace of mind.
Swollen Lymph Nodes in Adults
Adults concerned about lumps in their neck should consult an ENT doctor if any of the following apply:
The lymph node is swollen with no recent illness or infection to explain it, or it isn’t improving after other symptoms have been resolved.
If the node has been swollen for longer than two weeks or if it’s larger than 1-2 centimeters across (about the size of a grape).
The lump feels hard, rubbery, or fixed in place. Normal lymph nodes are usually soft and movable.
If the neck mass is large enough to cause trouble swallowing food or breathing.
If you experience other symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss since the node has begun swelling.
Swollen Lymph Nodes in Seniors
The likelihood that a swollen lymph node could represent a serious underlying issue is higher for seniors in comparison to younger patients. Visit an ENT doctor immediately if any of the following apply:
If you notice a new lump in your neck, even if it’s not painful, have it immediately checked by an ENT specialist. Many times, it will be benign or easily treatable, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
If the lump is bigger than 1 cm or if there are multiple swelling lumps, immediately consult an ENT doctor or the ER, as this could seriously affect your breathing.
If you are feeling sick, nauseous, or have a loss of balance along with swollen lymph nodes, speak with a doctor immediately. This could be a sign of a dangerous underlying condition.
Contact Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee for a prompt evaluation of any neck swelling. Visit us online or call us at 615-340-4000 to schedule an appointment.
Why Visit Our Nashville Allergy Clinic
Persistent neck swelling can sometimes stem from allergic inflammation rather than infection. At our Nashville allergy clinic, Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee provides:
Comprehensive Neck Care: Evaluation and management of infections, thyroid goiters, tumors, and swollen lymph nodes.
Innovative Diagnostics: Skin and blood testing to pinpoint seasonal, airborne, and food allergens.
Immunotherapy Treatments: Personalized allergy shots or sublingual drops to reduce sensitivity over time.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up to adjust your treatment plan and ensure optimal results.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Coordination with audiologists, allergists, and oncologists under one roof.
Convenient Scheduling: Our multiple locations throughout Nashville and Franklin allow for flexible appointment times.
Trust Nashville’s Premier ENT Team
If a swollen lymph node sticks around longer than it should, keeps growing, or just doesn’t feel right, it’s wise to get it checked out by OAT’s ENT doctors. Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee has nearly 100 years of heritage in Middle Tennessee and a reputation for excellence in ear, nose, and throat care. We treat you like family, with a warm, patient-focused approach every step of the way. Don’t take chances with your health. Let our ENT doctors give you clarity and effective care.
If you’ve discovered a lump in your neck or have swollen lymph nodes that worry you, schedule an appointment with Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee today. Call 615-340-4000 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
