[20F] With persistent swollen lymph nodes and associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing swollen lymph nodes for over three months. These nodes are described as hard and tender to the touch. Accompanying symptoms include headaches located at the back of the head, rated as a 6 out of 10 in intensity, which worsen with exposure to bright lights but are relieved by ibuprofen. The patient also reports chest pain, leg aches, and easy fatigue. Additionally, there is a decrease in appetite with associated stomach pain after eating, sometimes accompanied by nausea. There is no unexplained weight loss or persistent fever. The patient has a history of a sinus infection a year ago and has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since age 13. There is a family history of breast cancer on the maternal side, diagnosed at age 30. The patient is currently taking birth control (Haley Fe) and reports no use of tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drugs. No known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential explanations for your condition:

  1. Lymphadenopathy: The persistent swelling of your lymph nodes could be due to a variety of causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or more rarely, cancers such as lymphoma. Given the duration and characteristics of your lymph node swelling, it's important to have this evaluated by a healthcare professional. They may recommend blood tests, imaging studies, or a biopsy to determine the cause.

  2. Migraine or Tension Headaches: Your headaches, especially with sensitivity to light, could be migraines or tension-type headaches. These can be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or other factors. Treatment often involves lifestyle modifications, pain relief medications, and sometimes preventive medications.

  3. Gastrointestinal Issues: The stomach pain and nausea after eating, along with decreased appetite, could suggest a gastrointestinal issue such as gastritis or an ulcer. These conditions can be exacerbated by stress, diet, or medications. An evaluation by a healthcare provider is recommended to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

  4. Night Sweats and Fatigue: These symptoms can be associated with a range of conditions, including infections, hormonal imbalances, or more serious conditions like lymphoma. It's important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

What you can do

Swollen Lymph Nodes:

  • Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and get a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests to determine the underlying cause.
  • Keep track of any changes in the size or tenderness of your lymph nodes and any new symptoms that arise.

Headaches:

  • Try to identify and avoid potential triggers, such as bright lights or stress.
  • Continue using ibuprofen for relief, but be mindful of the recommended dosage and frequency.
  • Consider relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help manage stress.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms:

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to help reduce stomach discomfort.
  • Avoid foods and drinks that may irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Keep a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms that follow, which can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

General Health:

  • Ensure you are getting enough rest and managing stress effectively.
  • Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Significant or unexplained weight loss
  • Persistent or worsening symptoms
  • New or worsening chest pain
  • Any new or concerning symptoms

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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12 d ago


People Also Ask


What could be causing my swollen lymph nodes?

Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or more rarely, cancers such as lymphoma. It's important to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional who may recommend tests like blood tests, imaging, or a biopsy to determine the cause.


How can I manage my headaches that worsen with bright lights?

Your headaches could be migraines or tension-type headaches, often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or other factors. Managing them involves identifying and avoiding triggers, using pain relief medications like ibuprofen, and trying relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.


What might be causing my stomach pain and nausea after eating?

Stomach pain and nausea after eating could suggest gastrointestinal issues like gastritis or an ulcer, which can be exacerbated by stress, diet, or medications. It's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.


When should I be concerned about my symptoms and seek medical attention?

You should seek medical attention if you experience significant or unexplained weight loss, persistent or worsening symptoms, new or worsening chest pain, or any new or concerning symptoms. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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