Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area. Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice: 
Tenderness and pain in the lymph nodes
Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodes
 Depending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include: 
Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection
General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body. When this occurs, it may indicate an infection, such as HIV or mononucleosis, or an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
Hard, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, indicating a possible cancer or lymphoma
Fever
Night sweats
