4. Enlarged Lymph Nodes: More than Just a Small Bump
Lymph nodes are the hubs of your immune system, filtering harmful substances from your body. When they swell, it’s a sign that they are trapping a large number of abnormal or diseased cells. CLL often causes lymph nodes to enlarge, particularly those in your neck, armpits, and groin.
The enlarged lymph nodes often feel like soft, rubbery lumps under your skin. They are usually painless, making it easy to ignore them or dismiss them as inconsequential.
Swollen lymph nodes can result from a variety of conditions, ranging from a simple infection to more serious issues like CLL. However, nodes enlarged due to infections tend to be tender and may reduce in size after the infection subsides. In CLL, the swelling is often persistent and painless. (4)
