Lymph node swelling may or may not cause pain. Signs and symptoms depend on the cause of the swollen glands. Other questions may also be asked in some cases, such as a person's sexual history and practices. Any other cancer that spreads throughout the body can also cause swollen glands. Sometimes the cause cannot be found.
Prevention is related to the cause.
If a person gets cut or injured, careful cleaning and care of the wound may prevent a swollen gland. Safer sex practices can help prevent cases due to syphilis or HIV . Routine childhood vaccines can help prevent some infections, such as rubella . Many cases, such as those due to cancer or autoimmune disorders , cannot be prevented. Diagnosis begins with a history and physical exam.