For some really great in depth and accurate info on lymph nodes - go to wikipedia at:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymph_nodes. . Basically Lymph Nodes are tiny, bean-shaped components or organs of your lymphatic system and usually appear in clusters located on different areas of your body. Your lymphatic system, moves lymph node fluid like lymph from your blood plasma, including B and T cell lymphotcytes, antigens, antibodies, waste substance, and nutrients throughout your body, bloodstream and tissues. . . Each lymph node is also an important part of your immune system. Your lymph node filters fluids, catching viruses, bacteria, and other unknown materials. Then your unique white blood cells destroy the unwanted materials. . . A lymph node may be found alone or in a group thoughout your body. A group can be felt most easily: . . In the neck (found on either side of the neck, behind your ears, or under your chin). . underarm . In the groin. . Normally, a healthy lymph node is not sensitive or sore. . . A child between the ages of 10 to 12 years old usually has large lymph nodes, which can be twice the normal size. . . Placing a heating pad (on low) or a warm towel on your painful lymph node may reduce the soreness. It may have negative effects so use with caution. . . Typically enlargement is caused by an infection that your lymph node is destroying. . . A slight enlargement and softness means the swollen lymph node is succeeding in the tough battle. It is severely infected when the swollen lymph node enlarges more than 1 inch across. . . If your swollen lymph node is over 2 inches across or the covering skin is pink, unfortunately it is losing in the tough battle. You should contact your health professional immediately. Lymph nodes that are enlarged can actually be occasionally caused by tumors.. . A swollen lymph node not returning to normal size, which is about 1/3 inch across, after a month should be checked by a health professional.. . The following could be some causes of swollen neck lymph nodes as possible symptoms: . . Throat infection . Tonsillitis / swollen tonsil. Ear infection . Skin infection . Hodgkins Disease