8. Swollen Lymph Nodes: A Sign That’s Hard but Not Always Painful
Swollen lymph nodes are perhaps the most iconic symptom associated with lymphoma, including NHL. In children, these swollen nodes often feel hard and are usually painless. Parents might first discover them while giving their child a hug, noticing unusual lumps in the neck, armpits, or groin.
It’s not uncommon for lymph nodes to swell in response to a simple infection, like a cold, but the nodes involved in NHL are different. They don’t tend to get smaller once the acute illness resolves; instead, they may continue to grow or remain enlarged, and they have a firmer, rubbery feel.
These enlarged lymph nodes are a direct result of the disease. NHL originates in the lymphatic system, and as the cancer cells proliferate, they cause the nodes to swell.
They’re typically not tender, which might give a false sense of security, as we often associate pain with problems. But painless swelling is a hallmark of this type of lymph node involvement.
Finding swollen, persistent, and non-tender lymph nodes in a child is a strong signal to consult a healthcare professional. Don’t wait for them to change or for other symptoms to develop. Early evaluation can be pivotal, as it allows for prompt diagnosis and the immediate commencement of potentially life-saving treatment. (8)
