Rest and get plenty of sleep
Drink plenty of fluids
Use a warm compress on the swollen area
Gargle with warm salt water if the glands are in the neck
Take over-the-counter pain relievers if safe for you
Avoid squeezing or massaging the swollen glands
Treat the underlying cause, such as a cold, infection, or dental issue
Eat soft foods if swallowing is painful
Use a humidifier to keep air moist
See a doctor if swelling lasts more than two weeks, gets worse, or is painful, hard, or accompanied by fever, weight loss, or trouble breathing or swallowing