General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body.These nodes may grow to the size of a pea or kidney bean. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Most cases are benign and self-limited, however, the differential diagnosis is broad. Cervical lymphadenopathy is abnormal enlargement of lymph nodes (LNs) in the head and neck usually >1 cm. Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection Early symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in neck in children and adults include tender and painful lymph nodes. Parents are concerned about swollen lymph nodes in their childrens necks or scalps. Cervical lymph nodes are often palpable in well children.Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodesĭepending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:.When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice: Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. Although it’s not very common, cancer that spreads to the occipital lymph nodes can be caused by melanoma, cancer of the scalp, lung cancer, or thyroid cancer. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. People sometimes call these 'swollen glands,' but lymph nodes arent glands. You usually don’t notice lymph nodes unless they’re swollen. Lymph nodes are small clumps of tissue that are part of the lymphatic system and help fight off infections. Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. The most common cause of neck lumps is: Swollen lymph nodes.