another lymph node question

Hello. Thanks for reading this. I have a question about lymph nodes. I am definitely able to feel the lymph nodes on both sides on my neck. They are about 1/2 inch long on both sides. I cannot feel swollen glands anywhere else on my body, but I don't remember ever being able to feel the ones in my neck until recently. Should I be concerned about HIV? I had unprotected sex with a man, I am a female, about 6 months ago, then again about 2 months ago. I am just being paranoid?

[Teak]

More than likely if your nodes are swollen then it's because you won't leave them alone. The only way you will know your status is by testing.

[ExtremeStress]

If you are so paranoid, why do you continue to have unprotected sex if it makes you feel this way? Anyhow! What Teak said is right! You are probably irratating them. Go get seen by a doctor to get them checked, because they are the professionals. Then get tested, just to know what your status is. Good luck!!!!

[Leah22]

With all due respect, this is not meant to sound rude so please don't take it that way, but sometimes people make mistakes or do things without thinking. Everyone has done things in the past that they aren't happy about. I did it twice my entire life, and maybe I just didn't learn the first time. I know better now, because I did not think it was going to cause anxiety, but it did. Thanks for the advice. The only reason I asked the question was because a lot of people seemed to be concerned about swollen lymph nodes and it got me thinking. Take care

[ExtremeStress]

I was just pointing toward you being paranoid, but please get tested Just to know! I know everyone makes mistakes, that is why most people come on this forum, including myself! I hope all goes well for you!

[allthesigns]

I was convinced I had swollen lymph nodes in both sides of my neck.  I have, however, had two doctors from two completely different practices tell me they are fine.  It is my consistent poking and prodding that has irritated them.  

[misteryos]

Honestly, this lymph node stuff can be really anxiety-producing. Just keep in mind that from what I've read:

1. Lymph nodes -- the ones that are easily palpable -- are usually pea-sized or bean-sized. I believe that 1/2 inch (or slightly less) is normal, meaning they'd be slightly swollen.

2. You can feel your lymph nodes if you're thin. I started feeling mine and immediately started spazzing out, until I read that they're easily felt if you're a skinny person. I just happen to be skinny, so I can feel mine.

3. Lymph nodes get swollen from lots of things. Mine were swollen in my neck as of four weeks ago or so, and have *greatly* gone down since then. I got two pretty bad eye infections/conditions that I believe may have played a part, or it could have been a virus or something.

Also, keep in mind that until I read online that swollen lymph nodes could be a symptom of HIV, I had never felt for them at all. Not once. Ever. The only reason many people start feeling their lymph nodes, I'm gathering, is because they read something that says they should. Otherwise, I'll admit that I have never once felt for a lymph node in the 20+ years I've been on this earth.

[misteryos]

*correction -- above, I meant "meaning they *might* be slightly swollen in your case."

[Leah22]

Thanks everyone for the information. I am pretty sure I am fine.....and yes I do have severe anxiety and sometimes I just need some reassurance. So thanks again!