thoughts on hard suspicious submandibular nodes?

[tony23874]

I would greatly appreciate any advice from anyone reading this.

I noticed that on December the 6th my submandibular nodes swelled and became rather hard to the touch, however they are mobile. Also i notice that the skin in that area often feels very warm, more so than the rest of my face or body. I have no pain (or very mild irritation when poked at), and they are still swollen, and actually seem to have increased in size. They are now about the size of my thumb nail, almost an inch i think.
I now feel very worried because of what i am reading online.
I used to smoke heavily for about 3-4 years, but quit because of frequent respiratory problems (i also have a history of chronic bronchitis).
Should i be worried? I'm scared to see a doctor... i also had a sore thraot/deep red throat since the 25th of november. It hurts a lot less now, but still remains red.
Any thoughts on what it could be? My friend says possibly to do with the thyroid..

[turtle221]

Hi.  I am sorry you are not feeling well.  Your nodes may be swollen due to a throat or oral irritation or infection.  I think the fact that they are warm to the touch indicates infection.  You should see your doc, you probably need an antibiotic.  Try not to worry too much.  You have not been feeling well and infection is a very probable cause for these nodes to be swollen.  It is good that they are mobile.  Try to relax and make a doc appt.  You'll feel alot better.  Good luck.

[sfrancis]

anyone?