Swollen lymph node on right side of neck.

[derekmarc]

I am 22 and I wanted to post a question about a small swollen lymph node (through research I have discovered it is the retropharyngeal node) on the right side of my neck. It has literally been swollen (very unnoticable, am not even sure if it's swollen) for a few years, maybe 4-5, maybe longer.

I am very healthy, nothing wrong with me, however as a child I had constant tonsil infestions and at 10 I was hospitalized for strep throat. Even after that I would still get infestions and have to see the doctor. However, it stopped around 12 or 13 and since then I've probably had two or three throat infestions that don't last too long.

Honestly, I haven't been to the doctor for an illness for probably 3 years, the last time I went was to take a physical for basketball about 3 and a half years ago.

I do have acne, since 14. It used to be much worse until I started taking accutane but even that couldn't cure it. I still have it and was told by someone that's why the "node" is swollen.

I just don't know what it is. It's never changed size, although I think it does get smaller from time to time and if I told someone about it they'd have to really look or feel in order to know its there.

I'm not sure what it could be?

[sk2006a]

i would still have a dr. check it out.  better safe than sorry, and you'll probably sleep better having an answer!  you only get one chance with your health!

[DMattson]

If you have it that long and have no other symptoms I woud just leave it alone. Don't touch it because that will cause it to enlarge or stay enlarged. Lymph nodes can be very sensitive.