Swollen lymph nodes typically feel like soft, round lumps beneath the skin, often described as being about the size of a pea or a bean. They can be tender or painful to the touch, especially when the body is fighting an infection. The texture is usually soft or rubbery, and the nodes may be movable under the skin. Tenderness is often a sign that the lymph nodes are actively working to fight an infection, causing them to expand quickly

. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes can feel hard, firm, or fixed in place, which may indicate more serious conditions such as chronic inflammation, lymphoma, or cancer. Lymph nodes associated with lymphoma often have a rubbery texture and are usually painless, though they can sometimes ache if pressing on nearby nerves. Hard, immovable, or rapidly enlarging lymph nodes warrant medical evaluation

. Summary of what swollen lymph nodes feel like:

• Soft, round, pea- or bean-sized lumps under the skin
• Tender or painful to touch (common with infections)
• Movable or mobile under the skin
• Sometimes hard or firm (may indicate serious conditions)
• Usually painless if related to lymphoma, but can ache if pressing on nerves

If swollen lymph nodes persist for more than 2-3 weeks, grow larger, or are accompanied by other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever, medical advice should be sought