I really need some input concerning a pair of swollen glands or lymph nodes I have under my jawline; center of jaw. These swollen lumps have been present for over 10 years on both sides of my neck. The left side has always been a bit larger; left side is probably 1.5-2 CM squared, right side is 1-1.25 cm in size, both are palpable, movable and rubbery/firm in consistancy.

A little back ground: had chronic inner ear infections as a child and had tonsils and adnoids removed at around 12 yrs old, had two lower wisdom teeth removed around age 19, diagnosed with TMJ (grind teeth) at around 35. I started noticing the nodes around age 25 after a nasty bout with bronchitis and viral infection; it seemed as though when I was sick they would swell and not shrink back to there normal size. So over the years they have grown a bit but only after illness. They are somewhat sore and achy probably because I constantly probe them.

I've been to the doctor and never had the glands specifically looked at but seem to check out okay after blood work etc. There are no other symptoms related to the swollen glands other than occassional anxiety over worrying over them.

My question is, what are the possible causes of these swollen glands? Is some sort of cancer a realistic outcome given the leangth of time present and lack of other symptoms?

Any responses are greatly appreciated.