swollen lymph nodes from scalp picking swollen lymph nodes from scalp picking

Fourth, is the patient taking a medication that may cause lymphadenopathy? Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Lymph nodes may become inflamed for a variety of reasons, including infection, virus, or cancer. Heres a general comparison of typical symptoms of lymphoma versus those of an infection: The National Health Service recommends seeing a doctor if: A diagnosis of non-Hodgkins lymphoma usually starts with a visit to your primary doctor. Tinea capitis can cause swelling of the occipital lymph nodes. This fluid contains white blood cells (lymphocytes) that help the body fight infection. B-cell lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. Proper wound care: How to minimize a scar. In patients with unexplained localized lymphadenopathy and a reassuring clinical picture, a three- to four-week period of observation is appropriate before biopsy. Your neck contains about 300 out of 800 of your bodys lymph nodes. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma is another type of cancer that can affect the lymphatic system. What is skin picking disorder? Dermatillomania, or excoriation disorder, is a psychiatric condition wherein a person repeatedly picks, scratches, or rubs at their skin. Large, visible lymph nodes are normal for many people with ALPS. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Pediatr Rev. However, it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. If you only have swelling in one or two lymph nodes, you likely have an infection in a nearby part of your body. Ringworm typically isnt serious, but youll need treatment to prevent persistent or serious inflammation. Tidy says that lymphoma causes one or more swollen lymph nodes, usually in the side of the neck, groin, or armpit.10. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dr. Harold Peltan and another doctor agree. The most common causes of swollen occipital lymph nodes include: If a person has an open cut or wound on their scalp, bacteria may enter the skin and cause an infection. Getting the vaccine is the best way to prevent rubella. In some cases, a physical exam may be sufficient. All rights reserved. About half of extranodal lymphomas of the head and neck occur in an area called Waldeyers ring. Some medical problems, such as infections, can cause them to swell. To learn more, please visit our. There may be fever, chills, and body aches from the infection. A doctor can provide information about safe and effective treatment options. Because occipital lymph nodes can swell if you have a serious disease like cancer, you will also find out when you should see a doctor. Symptoms include ulcers, pain, and swelling. It would be useful to be able to examine the "bug bite" site as well as the "lymph node". Doctors say that bacterial infections that cause occipital lymph node swelling usually only affect one side.5. It takes about 2 weeks for symptoms to show up. Some medications are known to specifically cause lymphadenopathy (e.g., phenytoin [Dilantin]), while others, such as cephalosporins, penicillins or sulfonamides, are more likely to cause a serum sickness-like syndrome with fever, arthralgias and rash in addition to lymphadenopathy (Table 2). You can find the approximate location of the occipital lymph nodes if you put your hand just at the nape of your neck. can you please tell me what might be the cause? This content is owned by the AAFP. What might bring about my swollen lymph node? It can be tempting to pick at scabs on the scalp if they are itchy or painful, but this can cause complications such as infections or skin damage. . You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. They usually relate to scalp conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis. Parts of the immune system. Being a natural hair'd girl I, Blow drying. This has caused a lot of soreness and the lymph nodes behind my ear and on the side of my neck have become painfully swollen. If lymphoma or another health problem is expected, they will order additional tests such as: After receiving a diagnosis, your doctor will likely want you to undergo further testing to better understand the type of cancer you have. Its a chronic skin condition. What is excoriation (skin picking) disorder? You could have eczema, seborrhea, atopic or other form of dandruff. A feeling of heaviness or tightness. Chen Y, et al. Patients with these syndromes present with lymphadenopathy, fatigue, malaise, fever and an increased atypical lymphocyte count. In this article, you will learn about the various causes of swollen occipital lymph nodes. When, after the initial evaluation and after exploration of the diagnostic and suggestive branches of the algorithm (Figure 2), a cause for the lymphadenopathy remains unexplained, the physician must decide whether to pursue a specific diagnosis. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Impetigo of the scalp is one common bacterial infection that can cause this. Most commonly, though, it is a scalp or skin problem. Sometimes, these enlarged lymph nodes are confused with cancer of the lymph gland, or lymphoma. Swollen lymph nodes around the neck are the most common. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? The preauricular lymph nodes sit just in front of the ears. If it does affect the scalp, the occipital lymph nodes may swell as they try to filter out cancer cells. Last medically reviewed on April 2, 2020, Scalp infections occur when bacteria or fungus enter damaged skin or hair follicles on the scalp. Excessive scratching may cause open sores and a bacterial infection, which can lead to swollen lymph nodes. If it doubles in size, other nodes become enlarged, the node becomes warm and painful, or if you lose weight, th Swollen lymph nodes in back of neck often indicate an infection in your scalp. (n.d.). Thank you so much. Usually, this condition goes away by itself, or a healthcare professional may prescribe antibiotics. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. The presence of the typical syndrome and positive results on a heterophilic antibody test (Monospot test) confirms the diagnosis. not bigger. Fama, J. M. (2020). It involves red sores that burst and crust over. All rights reserved. There are approximately 700 lymph nodes found in the human body, with the majority of them being in the armpit, neck, and groin areas. In this article, we look at the causes of swollen occipital lymph nodes, when to see a doctor, and treatment options. In patients with generalized lymphadenopathy, the physical examination should focus on searching for signs of systemic illness. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sakr M, et al. You can also find support from these sources: The most common early symptom of non-Hodgkins lymphoma is a swollen lymph node. The most common locations for them to develop are the side of your neck, armpit, and groin. The superficial lymph nodes of the head and neck receive lymph from the scalp, face and neck. What is the latest research on the form of cancer Jimmy Carter has? Press J to jump to the feed. Can Curcumin Help Prevent or Treat Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma? Head lice are tiny insects that attach to human hair and bite the scalp. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Second, are there constitutional symptoms such as fever, weight loss, fatigue or night sweats to suggest disorders such as tuberculosis, lymphoma, collagen vascular diseases, unrecognized infection or malignancy? Learn more about the purpose, procedure, and risks. They often show up behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. I also pick the skin on my scalp and sometimes the same thing happens to me, my lymph nodes swell and hurt. The most helpful findings are rash, mucous membrane lesions, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly or arthritis (Table 4). Use sunscreen or keep the scalp covered to prevent browning or reddening of the scab. If they last for a long time or occur with concerning symptoms, you may need medical care. About 10 to 15 percent of cases of melanoma occur in the head and neck. What causes a painful scalp when the hair moves? Lymph node swelling, also called lymphadenopathy, is fairly common and usually not serious. Learn more. Swollen Occipital Lymph Nodes: Causes and When to See a Doctor, Jenny Hills, Nutritionist and Medical Writer, natural ways to get rid of ringworm for good, Top 10 Natural Ways To Cleanse Your Lymphatic System. When biopsy is deferred, the physician should explain to the patient the rationale for waiting. I have 2 swollen lymph node at the back of my neck, for about a year is when i noticed, i can feel it, but there not to large. Most cases of lice respond well to over-the-counter medications. Other signs of a skin infection include: Some minor skin infections may go away with at-home care, which may involve cleaning the site of infection regularly and using an antibiotic skin ointment. We'll go over these factors and how they may affect your outcome. If you catch strep throat or an ear infection, the lymph nodes behind your ears can become swollen and inflamed. Treatment for a skin picking disorder often involves therapy and medication. If present for many months may be fungus infection and not visually obv. But, most people can treat . Examples include swollen lymph nodes, infections such as strep throat, and viruses. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Your healthcare professional may investigate the issue further using: Treatment for the condition thats causing your swollen occipital lymph nodes will depend on the cause. No matter where they are, though, its nearly impossible to notice them unless they have swelled up. Swollen lymph nodes can appear anywhere on your body but are most common in your armpit, neck, or groin. They filter out bacteria and other invaders before these pathogens can return to the bloodstream. These cells live longer as a result of the mutation, so they begin to build up in your lymph nodes, making them swell. It can also cause swelling in the occipital nodes. Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the tongue base: The clinicopathology of seven cases and evaluation of HPV and EBV status. Most of the time, swollen lymph nodes arent caused by lymphoma or other cancers. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to renew itself too quickly. Swollen lymph nodes generally aren't painful, and they. I guess my question is, have any of you had the issue of your lymph nodes swelling? Therefore, a lump on the back of your neck just below your skull could be a symptom that your occipital lymph nodes are swollen because of an infection affecting your head. What to know about swollen cervical lymph nodes, Nicole Leigh Aaronson, MD, MBA, CPE, FACS, FAAP, measles-like rash that appears on the face and then spreads, asymmetrical (the two halves do not match), large in diameter (larger than a pencil eraser). If youre still debating trying a new look, parting with dry, dead length, or going all the way a la the, No matter how much stuff you put on top of your hair/scalp, you will never be able to put enough oils, serums or concoctions to make your hair healthy. im under 18yo. New poster here. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Most complications are caused by cancer treatment and not the lymphoma. Swollen lymph nodes. In addition, spots on the scalp can be harder to detect if the hair covers them. A person should try to stop picking at their scabs to prevent them from getting worse and to help them heal. Learn about 5 of the most common types, their symptoms, treatment, and more. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Treatment includes antibiotics. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Throat infections or respiratory problems are also common. But it can occasionally cause complications, including liver issues or an enlarged spleen, so its best to follow up with a healthcare professional. This material may not otherwise be downloaded, copied, printed, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any medium, whether now known or later invented, except as authorized in writing by the AAFP. You can get a bacterial infection called cat-scratch disease if one scratches you, bites you, or licks an open wound on your skin. (2020). The lymph nodes have been swollen for 2-4 weeks and they continue to enlarge. According to Dr. Benoit Gosselin, you have 3-5 occipital lymph nodes or glands at the base of your skull. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. Local bacterial infections, such as in the throat or nearby skin, may cause your occipital lymph nodes to swell. TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, https://www.mhanational.org/conditions/excoriation-disorder-skin-picking-or-dermatillomania, https://iocdf.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Skin-Picking-Disorder-Fact-Sheet.pdf, https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/wound-care-minimize-scars, https://www.bfrb.org/learn-about-bfrbs/skin-picking-disorder. Lymphedema signs and symptoms include: Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes. They will also feel the swollen lymph nodes, noting the size and firmness, and whether you feel pain when theyre gently pressed. Bacterial infections on your scalp could be a reason for swollen occipital lymph nodes. Findings from this Dutch study revealed a 0.6 percent annual incidence of unexplained lymphadenopathy in the general population. The International OCD Foundation says that common areas a person may pick at include the: A person with dermatillomania may pick at their scalp with their fingers, nails, or tools. In order of likelihood, these conditions are: infection. MayoClinic. Heart failure: Could a low sodium diet sometimes do more harm than good? Rubella. Treatment generally depends on how advanced the cancer is when its discovered and the specific type of lymphoma you have. If a person has swollen occipital lymph nodes, a doctor will try to find the cause. Lymphadenitis is an infection in one or more lymph nodes. I will. This syndrome involves the combination of conjunctivitis and associated preauricular nodes. It would be prudent to see your doctor to have it evaluated. However, some skin infections can become serious. What are the early symptoms of non-Hodgkins lymphoma? The algorithm in Figure 2 provides a diagnostic framework for the evaluation of lymphadenopathy. I just began the antibiotics yesterday, so if after a couple of days there's no change, I'll go to another clinic. They may check the scalp for signs of infection or cancer. One of the most common symptoms is swollen lymph nodes, particularly in your neck, under your arms, or in your groin. Hi, I have been suffering from scalp dermatitis for nearly a year on the right side of my head a small lump has appeared it is not sore to touch and I have no s This topic is answered by a medical expert. People will most commonly get them on the scalp on the back of the head or on the cheek. They are arranged in a ring shape; extending from underneath the chin, to the posterior aspect of the head. As with all lymph glands in your body, the function of your occipital lymph nodes is to keep your immune system healthy. If you have swollen occipital lymph nodes and they seem to be connected to a cold, its likely no cause for concern. The cause of lymphadenopathy is often obvious: for example, the child who presents with a sore throat, tender cervical nodes and a positive rapid strep test, or the patient who presents with an infection of the hand and axillary lymphadenopathy. A person should work with their doctor to find the best treatment to help control the symptoms. The diagnostic yield of the biopsy can be maximized by obtaining an excisional biopsy of the largest and most abnormal node (which is not necessarily the most accessible node). Typical conditions include tooth infections or viruses. It circulates through body tissues picking up fats, microbes, and other undesirable supplies, elimination of extra tissue . Learn about the different areas of the body affected by non-Hodgkins lymphoma and the possible symptoms you may experience with this kind of cancer. Fine-needle aspiration is occasionally considered an alternative to excisional biopsy but often yields a high number of nondiagnostic results because of the small amount of tissue obtained and the inability to examine the architecture of the gland.7 In addition, there may be some risk of sinus tract formation, depending on the underlying pathology.8. It's sometimes referred to as the queen of greens because its nutritional value is just about unmatched. Lymph nodes exist throughout the body, including in the back area of the skull, which is called the occipital region. GMS Curr Top Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. Like I mentioned before theyre painful which is a good sign but theyre very hard. Some cancers can spread to the lymphatic system and cause swelling in the occipital lymph nodes. Anterior neck. Some causes include viral and bacterial infections, such as scarlet fever, shingles, or Lyme. There are various classifications of lymphadenopathy, but a simple and clinically useful system is to classify lymphadenopathy as generalized if lymph nodes are enlarged in two or more noncontiguous areas or localized if only one area is involved. Bacterial Throat Infection. (2018). In general, its also a good idea to make an appointment if your: Many things can cause lymph nodes to swell. Copyright 2023 American Academy of Family Physicians. The swelling is caused by white blood cells from your nodes destroying the infected cells. If the scalp is damaged, a person may need to apply topical medications to help the wounds heal. That is why in certain circumstances, a doctor will feel the back of your head to check if occipital lymph nodes are larger than they should be. They are a sign that the immune system is fighting off an invader. According to the American Cancer Society, fluid from your head, scalp, and face flow through the lymph nodes at the back and side of your neck. Cervical: Lymphadenopathy. Localized adenopathy should prompt a search for an adjacent precipitating lesion and an examination of other nodal areas to rule out generalized lymphadenopathy. Some people describe these lumps as having a soft or rubbery feel. Suppurant nodes may be fluctuant. Occipital lymph nodes are those found on the back of your head, near the base of your skull. MedScape. In primary care patients with unexplained lymphadenopathy, approximately three fourths of patients will present with localized lymphadenopathy and one fourth with generalized lymphadenopathy (Figure 1).2,3. It's often caused by an infection with bacteria. In this article, learn why this is and, Reactive lymph nodes occur when nodes swell in the body, usually due to infection or injury. A swollen node with a bacterial throat infection is usually just on one side. Melanoma of the head and neck. Another reason for swelling in your lymph nodes at the top of your neck is a fungal infection. That Scalp rash due to infection rarely spreads to cervical lymph nodes. Because lymph nodes help in keeping your body healthy, they can become swollen if you have an illness or infection. Now that we know the function of lymph nodes is to keep you healthy, lets look at reasons why your occipital lymph nodes can swell into small lumps at the base of your skull. Pain/Tenderness. A more recent article on lymphadenopathy is available. An infection on your scalp will cause toxins and debris to drain through the lymph nodes at the back of your head. It can be quite large; over 1 inch (25 mm) across. Occipital lymph nodes usually go back to normal after a person gets treatment for the underlying cause. A lump under the chin is most commonly caused by infection. MedScape. A person should also contact a doctor if they develop multiple scars on their scalp that they cannot identify. Swollen lymph nodes along with scalp psoriasis could suggest you have a yeast infection on your scalp. When all the lymph nodes swell, this may be a sign of a body-wide illness, such as mononucleosis (mono), or an immune system condition, such as lupus. Last medically reviewed on April 27, 2021, People may occasionally pick at their scabs. Lymph nodes under the arm can become swollen due to trauma. Anyone who is concerned about their risk can ask a doctor about getting regular skin checks to detect melanoma early. Palpable supraclavicular, popliteal, and iliac nodes, and epitrochlear nodes greater than . Third, are there epidemiologic clues (Table 1) such as occupational exposures, recent travel or high-risk behaviors that suggest specific disorders? This contagious fungal infection is generally recognized by round, scaly bald patches on the scalp. Gum disease. But if a swollen lymph node gets bigger or doesnt go away after about 2 weeks, its a good idea to contact a doctor. This is a first for me and I'm kind of worried. This skin cancer can affect any area of the body, including the scalp. This syndrome is defined by the presence of a skin lesion with associated regional lymphadenopathy. A more recent article on lymphadenopathy is available, HIV, syphilis, herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B infection, Fishermen, fishmongers, slaughterhouse workers, Arizona, southern California, New Mexico, western Texas, Southeast Asia, India, northern Australia, African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), American trypanosomiasis (Chagas' disease), East Africa, Mediterranean, China, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, Chile, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Tongue, submaxillary gland, lips and mouth, conjunctivae, Infections of head, neck, sinuses, ears, eyes, scalp, pharynx, Lower lip, floor of mouth, tip of tongue, skin of cheek, Mononucleosis syndromes, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosiss, Scalp and neck, skin of arms and pectorals, thorax, cervical and axillary nodes, Tuberculosis, lymphoma, head and neck malignancy, Eyelids and conjunctivae, temporal region, pinna, Lung, retroperitoneal or gastrointestinal cancer, Lymphoma, thoracic or retroperitoneal cancer, bacterial or fungal infection, Infections, cat-scratch disease, lymphoma, breast cancer, silicone implants, brucellosis, melanoma, Infections, lymphoma, sarcoidosis, tularemia, secondary syphilis, Penis, scrotum, vulva, vagina, perineum, gluteal region, lower abdominal wall, lower anal canal, Infections of the leg or foot, STDs (e.g., herpes simplex virus, gonococcal infection, syphilis, chancroid, granuloma inguinale, lymphogranuloma venereum), lymphoma, pelvic malignancy, bubonic plague, Fatigue, malaise, fever, atypical lymphocytosis, Often mild symptoms; patients may have hepatitis, IgM CMV antibody, viral culture of urine or blood, Fever in one third of patients; cervical or axillary nodes, Usually clinical criteria; biopsy if necessary, Pharyngitis due to group A streptococcus, gonococcus, Fever, pharyngeal exudates, cervical nodes, Arthritis, rash, serositis, renal, neurologic, hematologic disorders, Clinical criteria, antinuclear antibodies, complement levels, Fever, night sweats, weight loss in 20 to 30% of patients, Fever, malaise, arthralgia, urticaria; exposure to antisera or medications, Fever, conjunctivitis, rash, mucous membrane lesions, Febrile, acutely ill with cluster of tender nodes, Fever, chills, headache, abdominal complaints, Clinical criteria, antinuclear antibody, rheumatoid factor. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. They are the same on each side. Another common area is swollen lymph nodes behind the ear. Location. (2014). Zito PM, et al. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. You can usually feel swollen lymph nodes, and they may even be visible if you are fighting off an infection. Neck Pain and Headaches Could Your Neck Pain Cause a Headache? Healthcare professionals may also call them posterior cervical lymph nodes. Psoriasis commonly affects the scalp, but it also occurs in other areas of the body, including the face, feet, and skin folds. If a person has a skin picking disorder, repeatedly picking at the scalp can cause scarring, discoloration, or disfigurement, according to the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. In rare cases, the swelling of these lymph nodes can be a sign of cancer. Usually, swollen occipital lymph nodes will be accompanied by other symptoms. This allows them to work together to fight infections. Healthy and Natural World is supported by its audience. However, infections or disease can cause lymphatic fluid to build up in the nodes causing them to swell to a much larger size. A lymph node biopsy can help determine if you have an infection, an immune disorder, or cancer. Lumps under your skin can also have other causes, such as cysts and lipomas. These can usually be caused by several things. Sometimes, a serious infection could cause the nodes to swell even larger.4. Lymph nodes and cancer. (2016). One of the most common early symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a swollen lymph node caused by a buildup of atypical lymphocytes. Dental and oral complications are common in people with Hodgkins lymphoma. The common thread among all three styling tools is that they produce heat that is needed to create many different hairstyles, but repeated use of these very tools puts your hair at high risk, about Chop Talk: An Experts Advice On The Big Chop, about 8 Foods To Eat For Beautiful & Healthy Hair, about How To Protect Your Hair From Heat Styling, 10 Signs Youre Living With Clogged Arteries, Tracee Ellis Ross at 50: Loving Her Body With No Filter, Taraji P. Hensons Workout: It Keeps Me Calm & Happy, Football Legend & Coach Deion Sanders Has Toes Amputated, BlackDoctor.org Advertising and Sponsorship Policy, Chop Talk: An Experts Advice On The Big Chop, 8 Foods To Eat For Beautiful & Healthy Hair, How To Protect Your Hair From Heat Styling. However, swollen occipital lymph nodes could be a symptom of a more serious disease in the body. Mononucleosis is most commonly due to Epstein-Barr virus infection. If a person suspects that they may have dermatillomania, they should discuss treatment options with a doctor. There are many conditions that can cause swelling in the occipital lymph nodes. What causes a swollen lymph node and scalp rash? Epstein-Barr virus infectious mononucleosis. (2021). What other conditions cause swollen lymph nodes? I think that the absolute worst part about the journey is the DETANGLING! Signs of infection, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Bacterial infections on your scalp could be a reason for swollen occipital lymph nodes. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. One of the most common early symptoms of non-Hodgkins lymphoma is a swollen lymph node caused by a buildup of atypical lymphocytes. Your team will likely consist of a variety of medical professionals such as: Treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma depends on the extent of your cancer, how aggressive it is, the specific type you have, and your overall health. According to Dr. Colin Tidy on Patient.info, most cases of swollen lymph nodes are due to an infection and usually, the node swelling passes when the infection has gone. There are several home remedies available that may reduce dryness and relieve the symptoms of a dry, With many blood vessels and nerve endings in this area, bleeding and painful scabs in the nose are common issues. This watery fluid travels in the lymph channels, as a result of several lymph glands and eventually drains into the bloodstream. This accelerated process results in a buildup of skin cells that can cause itchy and painful red scales and patches. abscess. Minor skin infections may only need at-home care, while more complex infections, such as ringworm, may require a prescription. Lymphadenopathy may be the only clinical finding or one of several nonspecific findings, and the discovery of swollen lymph nodes will often raise the specter of serious illness such as. However, it could cause the scab to take longer to heal or lead to an infection. More immune cells may be going there, and more waste could be building up. Dr. Wesley Norman from Georgetown Medical Center says that lymph nodes will swell if there is an infection in that area.3 Depending on the cause of infection or which area of your body is affected, lymph nodes can swell enough to be felt with your fingers. Use petroleum jelly to help keep the scab or wound moisturized. They should be examined right away. Dr. Burke Cunha on Medscape says that infectious mononucleosis causes the occipital and preauricular nodes to swell.8 This infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus causes glands in your neck to become swollen and also gives you a sore throat. Head lice spread easily, so youll need quick treatment to kill the lice and their eggs. This may include avoiding social situations, avoiding intimacy with others, or wearing clothes that cover the areas they have picked. Although the finding of lymphadenopathy sometimes raises fears about serious illness, it is, in patients seen in primary care settings, usually a result of benign infectious causes.