Swollen lymph nodes are one of the most noticeable and uncomfortable symptoms of strep throat. Many people feel tender lumps along the sides of the neck or under the jaw and wonder how long the swelling will last, and whether it’s normal. While swollen glands are a common part of the body’s response to strep throat, their duration can vary depending on treatment, immune response, and overall health. Understanding what causes lymph nodes to swell with strep and how long you can expect them to last can help you recover with confidence and know when to seek medical care.
For same-day strep throat treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our urgent care center is open 6 days a week and always accepts walk-in patients. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply book below.
Why Lymph Nodes Swell With Strep Throat
Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and act as filters that trap bacteria and viruses. When you have strep throat, caused by Group A Streptococcus, nearby lymph nodes, especially those in the neck, become activated as they work to fight off the infection. This immune response causes lymph nodes to enlarge and become tender to the touch. Swollen lymph nodes are often one of the earliest signs of strep throat and can appear quickly after symptoms begin.
Typical Timeline for Swollen Lymph Nodes
Before Treatment
Before starting antibiotics, swollen lymph nodes may continue to enlarge and feel sore as the infection progresses. During this stage, they are often painful and accompanied by fever, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing.
After Starting Antibiotics
Once antibiotic treatment begins, most people notice improvement within 24 to 48 hours. Fever and throat pain often improve first. Swollen lymph nodes typically start to decrease in tenderness during this time but may remain enlarged.
1-2 Weeks After Infection
Even after the strep infection clears, lymph nodes may stay slightly swollen for 1 to 2 weeks. This is normal and reflects ongoing immune recovery.
Longer Than 2 Weeks
In some cases, lymph nodes may remain enlarged for several weeks, especially if the infection was severe or treatment was delayed. As long as the nodes are shrinking, not painful, and not growing larger, this is usually not concerning.
What’s Normal vs. What’s Not
Swollen lymph nodes with strep are considered normal when they:
- Appear in the neck or under the jaw
- Are tender during the active infection
- Gradually shrink after antibiotics begin
- Improve along with other symptoms
You should seek urgent care if lymph nodes:
- Continue to grow or become more painful
- Feel hard, fixed, or immobile
- Are accompanied by high or persistent fever
- Remain swollen beyond 3 to 4 weeks
These symptoms may indicate complications or another underlying condition. Urgent care evaluation is important if you suspect strep throat or if swollen lymph nodes are severe or persistent. Providers can perform a rapid strep test, prescribe antibiotics, and ensure there are no complications.
Get Same-Day Strep Throat Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale
Swollen lymph nodes with strep throat are common and usually improve within 1 to 2 weeks after starting treatment. Mild lingering swelling can be normal, but nodes that persist, worsen, or feel abnormal should be evaluated. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are part of normal recovery, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our providers can offer reassurance, testing, and effective treatment. We are dedicated to providing exceptional care to all patients in the Denver, CO area and surrounding communities. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about strep throat treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 935-1000.
