Guidelines

Why can I feel lymph nodes in my groin?

Why can I feel lymph nodes in my groin?

Lymph nodes in the groin are also called inguinal lymph nodes. Swollen nodes in the groin can be caused by an injury or skin infection, such as athlete’s foot. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and cancer can also cause swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

What do swollen lymph nodes in the groin feel like?

Swollen lymph nodes will feel like soft, round bumps, and they may be the size of a pea or a grape. They might be tender to the touch, which indicates inflammation. In some cases, the lymph nodes will also look larger than usual.

Are groin lymph nodes hard?

Healthy lymph nodes are more rubbery than the surrounding tissue but are not solid like stone. Any lumps on the neck, groin or armpits that are hard, very enlarged, and do not move when pushed may indicate lymphoma or another type of cancer and should be investigated by your GP.

Can you feel lymph nodes if they aren’t swollen?

Usually lymph nodes are not enlarged and thus not able to be felt, but if you have previously had an infection (such as tonsillitis) you may have noticed and felt lymph nodes becoming enlarged, painful and tender. Lymph nodes can also become enlarged due to cancer cells lodging in them.

What to do about swollen lymph nodes in groin area?

Swollen lymph nodes in groin area due to viral infections are mostly treated symptomatically and the swelling usually go away on its own. However, in the case of HIV infection, a more complex treatment is required.

When do the lymph nodes in the groin go back to normal?

Swollen lymph nodes usually return to normal when the underlying condition gets better. For instance, if you have a minor skin infection, such as athlete’s foot, your lymph nodes should go back to their normal size once you’ve treated the infection. Any lump in your groin should be evaluated by a doctor. See your doctor if:

Is it possible to feel your lymph nodes?

You should be able to feel some nodes owing to immune activation during childhood. The most common location for chronic, small nodes is in the groin. Feel the crease between the top of your leg and the bottom of your belly.

Where are the lymph nodes in the body?

You should be able to feel some nodes owing to immune activation during childhood. The most common location for chronic, small nodes is in the groin. Feel the crease between the top of your leg and the bottom of your belly. Other places to feel nodes are your armpits, neck (front and back) and below your collarbone.