Feel for a soft, rubbery, movable lump under the skin
Check for tenderness or pain when pressed
Notice swelling in common areas like the neck, under the jaw, armpits, or groin
Compare both sides of the body for asymmetry
Look for nodes that are larger than usual or newly noticeable
Watch for swelling that lasts more than a couple of weeks
Seek medical care if the lump is hard, fixed, rapidly growing, or accompanied by fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss