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Abnormal Chest Lymph Nodes

Abnormal Chest Lymph Nodes

Discovering that the lymph nodes in your chest have begun to swell can be alarming, but swollen lymph nodes are not always a sign of serious illness. So many conditions are associated with swollen glands that a doctor must evaluate other symptoms before making a diagnosis. Though some causes of swollen lymph nodes are benign, lymphadenopathy can also be a sign of many types of cancer and must always be evaluated by a professional.

What Are Lymph Nodes?

Lymph nodes, or lymph glands, are key parts of our immune system. Clustered through the body, they filter foreign particles from the fluids of the lymphatic system.

Symptoms

  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the chest, armpits, groin, or neck
  • Pressure around the chest, fullness, pain, or shortness of breath
  • Chills, loss of weight, tiredness, or swelling around the abdomen
  • A full feeling after eating only small amounts of food
  • Frequent or serious infections
  • Easy bruising or bleeding