Swollen Lymph Nodes in Adults

Common Causes

• Viral infections like colds or flu — These common illnesses might cause lymph nodes to swell as the immune system fights off viruses, often in the neck or underarms.
• Bacterial infections such as strep throat — Bacteria from throat infections could lead to tender, swollen nodes in the neck area in adults.
• Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis — These conditions might trigger ongoing inflammation, causing widespread lymph node swelling.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV — Certain STIs may cause generalized swelling due to immune system activation.
• Cancers such as lymphoma — In some cases, cancers might lead to hard, painless nodes that grow over time.

Learn More

For a full overview of this symptom, including home remedies and when to see a doctor, read our complete guide on Swollen Lymph Nodes.