What type of doctor should I see?

[Redhead442]

Hi All,

I have had an enlarged lymph node, which is sometimes tender, on the back of my neck for about the last month.  I can't link it up to any infection or injury, so I am concerned and would like to have a doctor examine me.  As I have a PPO health insurance, I can go directly to a specialist without having to go to a primary care physician first.  What type of specialist would I need to see for lymph concerns?

Thanks.

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Frequent manipulation (by gentle touching) of the lymph nodes will not
result in enlargement of that involved lymph nodes.  It may, however, cause some erythema or redness of the overlying skin.
Please do post your updates.
Stay positive.

[Redhead442]

Thanks, Dennis MD.

A related question...I usually gently touch this enlarged node once daily to evaluate the size, to see whether it has increased, decreased, or remained the same.  Can doing this be one of the reasons that it has not yet decreased much in size?

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
You may initially consult an internal medicine specialist to have you evaluated, and possibly undergo several diagnostic examinations.  The decision to refer you to another specialist rests on the initial evaluation.
Good luck.