Could tiredness, swollen lymph nodes and itching mean something serious?

Question

Hi. I have been a bit tired lately and a few weeks ago I noticed a bit swollen lymph node on the right side of my neck. I can't feel lymph nodes on the other side of my neck and the lymph nodes on my joints feel a lot smaller. I have also been itching a lot for a month now on my arms, shoulders, legs and chest. I didn't think it was abnormal until i got really tired and noticed the lymph node. Moisturizing it doesn't work. Should I be worried or go to the doctor?

Barb135 · Answer

I agree that you should see your doctor, if you haven't already.  A very common cause for your symptoms is hypothyroidism and, as indicated, iron deficiency, which is necessary for production and metabolism of thyroid hormones. 

Don't settle for the standard TSH test that's typically done for thyroid.  Insist on actual thyroid hormones (Free T4 and Free T3) to be tested, as well as thyroid antibodies, which will determine if you have an autoimmune thyroid condition, called Hashimoto's, which is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.

CHIN_C · Answer

You should see a doctor to workup your symptoms. Itchy skin can be a symptom of an underlying illness, including but not limited to liver disease, kidney failure, iron deficiency anemia, thyroid problems, and certain cancers, including multiple myeloma and lymphoma; concern for the latter is increased due to your concurrent fatigue and lymphadenopathy.

specialmom · Answer

A lymph node reacting in and of itself doesn't usually mean anything other than your body's immune system is working.  They will swell if you had been sick or fought off being sick and they can stay swollen for a bit.  I wouldn't think moisturizing it would do anything.  They just shrink over time.  Have you been ill?  Are you getting proper rest?  If you feel generally poorly and it continues, it never hurts to see your doctor for a check up.