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Hey, I have an enlarged lymph nodes on both sides of my jaw. I've had them for 2 years and they have never changed and they are just below half an inch in size. I also got them scanned by a doctor 2 years ago and they appeared to be fine. I also have no cause for them to be there. They may just be there because I’m slim.  I have started to get light headed when I raise my head too fast and I'm scared incase I might have Waldenström macroglobulinaemia since I have light heads and 2 raised lymph nodes. I've went to the doctor 2 years ago to get the node scanned and the results came back fine but I still don't have a cause for the lymph nodes being there. I've been told that my lymph nodes may be non cancerous since they haven't changed for over 2 years but could I still have Waldenström macroglobulinaemia with an unchanged lymph node for that amount of time? I’ve been told that if a lymph node remains unchanged for 2 years it isn’t cancerous so would it still be possible for my to have Waldenström macroglobulinaemia and if yes how so? I am also only 17. 

  • Hello Bradley 2105,

    Thanks for getting in touch with Macmillan Cancer Support .

    We’re sorry to read that you are worried about the possibility of Waldenström macroglobulinaemia.

    It’s not possible for nurses on this type of forum to say what the cause of enlarged lymph nodes may be.

    However, it is reassuring that these lymph nodes have not changed in 2 years and please remember that feeling dizzy when moving your head quickly is very common.

    It’s also reassuring to read that you don’t mention any other symptoms apart from feeling dizzy when you raise your head.

    Lymph nodes that remain unchanged for several years are extremely unlikely to be cancerous.

    As you are so worried about the possibility of a cancer we would suggest that you make an appointment with your GP to have these lymph nodes assessed again and to discuss your concerns specifically about cancer.

    It’s important to tell your doctor if you have any other symptoms that you’re worried about.

    Best wishes,

    Elise

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    Ref: FS