I was always under the assumption that swollen lymph nodes would be tender/painful in the case of HIV infection. However, i attended a conference on symptom management today for work and the Doctor hosting the class advised that most often nodes were NON tender but palipable (sp?) in HIV infected individuals. Couldnt find much info on the web, anyone have any opions on this??

Your doc is right. For the mostpart, HIV-related lymphadenopathy is described as non-painful, marked and palipable. For example, cervicals (sides of neck), have been described being from rows of peaa-sized balls, to even rows of golfball-sized protuberances, and patients report no pain, but overal dicomfort.

It is to note, that constantly touching nodes can cause them to enlarge and even hurt. Violent coughing and extreme physical strain will do that too.

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Best wishes.

[This message has been edited by anyone (edited 09-19-2003).]

can we feel nodes normally in the neck area?

I can feel mine and it seems to be pea size and not swollen but how would I know if they are swollen or not?

I know a night of heavy drinking can cause uncomfortable (though not really "swollen") nodes. Sometimes after I hit it hard and then drink again the very next day, the nodes right under my jaw will shoot pain.