Swollen Lymph Nodes in Children

Common Causes

• Viral upper respiratory infections — Colds or flu often cause temporary swelling in neck nodes as kids' immune systems respond.
• Strep throat or other bacterial infections — These might result in painful, enlarged nodes under the jaw or in the neck.
• Cat scratch disease — Bites or scratches from cats could lead to swollen nodes near the injury site.
• Mononucleosis (mono) — This viral illness, common in teens, may cause large, tender nodes in the neck.

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.