These symptoms also occur in people who have the flu. People who have a common cold may experience: The common cold and the flu are two common types of viral infections that affect the respiratory system.īoth a cold and the flu can lead to sore throats and swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck. Swollen lymph nodes can feel tender and also make the neck feel sore or stiff.Įxamples of infections that can cause both a sore throat and neck pain include: Cold and flu The lymph nodes filter and collect this waste, which is why people who are sick may develop swollen lymph nodes. This system also collects toxins and other waste material from the body.

Infections also trigger the lymphatic system, which contains white blood cells that kill invading microbes. Viral and bacterial infections that begin in the throat can lead to painful inflammation of the surrounding neck muscles. In addition, it includes the tonsils, esophagus (food pipe), trachea (windpipe), and epiglottis.Ī condition that affects one of these structures may affect one or more of the others.Ĭonditions that may produce symptoms in the throat and neck include: Infections The throat also contains blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves.

The muscles, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels of the neck overlap one another and surround the throat, which is a muscular tube that runs from the back of the mouth to the stomach. Share on Pinterest Infection may cause symptoms in the throat and neck.

Swollen lymph nodes on back of neck