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Painful swollen lymphnode on side of face. Is this normal?

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For about 3 months now I've had a swollen lymph node on the right side of my face. Its about 2.5cm long, and is leaning against/pressing on my facial artery. It sometimes causes pain when I chew, or bite down on food, and I'm worried about this because I'm curious to whether or not an inflamed lymph node can cause damage to the artery in any way or if this is perfectly normal. Thanks.

Category: Family Physician-GP

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Category: HIV- AIDS Specialist
 23 Doctors Online

Hello,
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com
I understand your concern.
No, the size is not big enough to impinge on an artery and affect its circulation in any way. But it is important to know why the lymph node is still there for last 3 months. When did you first notice it? Was it following any throat infection/ gum infection? Any other symptoms associated now? Are there any other similar swellings elsewhere in the body?
Feel free to discuss further,
Dr. Jaydeep


Patient replied :

What is the size that would impinge an artery to affect its circulation? I first noticed it 3 months ago, and I don't have swelling elsewhere in my body.


Hello,
It should be more than 4-5 cms to impinge on the artery.
The lymph node could be a result of some previous infection, and sometimes lymph nodes enlarge and stay that way before disappearing. It is known as reactive lymphadenitis. With no other swellings or symptoms, there is nothing to worry about. However, if it is increasing in size, then you can get it examined by your physician.
Hope this was helpful,
Regards.


Patient replied :

So this isn't a threat to my artery as long as it doesn't enlarge?


Hello,
Thank you for your follow-up.
No if it does not increase in size, there is no risk.
Hope this was helpful,
Regards.


Dr. Jaydeep Tripathy
Category: HIV- AIDS Specialist
Experience: 
MBBS from Sri Ramachandra University in December 2011
M.Med (Family Medicine) - TNMGR University, Chennai
MBA-MPH in Public Health in March 2016, SRM University
Finished AFIH in March 2016, SRM University
MRCP ( UK ), Internal Medicine, Royal College of Physicians, June 2016
Fellowship in Diabetology from Martin Luther University in January 2017

Currently Resident Physician, in MD Radiodiagnosis - Kamakshi Memorial Hospital, Chennai
Dr. Jaydeep Tripathy and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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