Rest and allow your body to recover
Drink plenty of fluids
Apply a warm compress to the swollen area
Take over-the-counter pain relievers if safe for you
Treat the underlying cause, such as an infection
Avoid squeezing, massaging, or pressing on the lymph nodes
Use saltwater gargles for throat infections if appropriate
Practice good hygiene to reduce further infection
Monitor the swelling for changes in size, pain, or duration
Seek medical care if swelling lasts more than 2 to 4 weeks
Seek medical care if the node is hard, fixed, rapidly growing, or very painful
Seek urgent care if you have fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or trouble breathing or swallowing