[23F] Experiencing difficulty swallowing and presence of lumps

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female is reporting difficulty swallowing, described as a sensation similar to suffocation or breath-holding, which has been present for 2-3 days. The patient feels an urge to gulp frequently and experiences discomfort when not doing so, with a fear that her breath might stop. Additionally, the patient has noticed a small bump under the right arm and near the pubic area, which is painful. The difficulty with swallowing is not associated with any specific types of food or drink. The patient is not currently pregnant and has not provided any further medical history.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are some possibilities:

  • Globus Sensation: This is a persistent sensation of a lump in the throat that you want to swallow. It is usually harmless and may be due to stress or anxiety.

    • Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as stress management techniques for anxiety-related globus sensation.
  • Lymphadenopathy: The lumps under your arm and near the pubic area could be swollen lymph nodes. This can occur due to infections, immune disorders, or cancers.

    • Treatment depends on the cause. If it's due to an infection, antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed. If it's due to a more serious condition like cancer, further treatment like chemotherapy may be needed.
  • Hernia: A lump in the groin area could also be a hernia, which occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place.

    • Treatment could involve surgery to repair the hernia.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about these symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

  1. Try to relax and manage your stress levels. This might help with the swallowing issue if it's due to globus sensation.
  2. Monitor the lumps for any changes in size, shape, or pain level. This will be useful information for your doctor.
  3. Avoid lifting heavy objects or straining, as this could worsen a hernia if that's what the lump is.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or severe chest pain
  • The lumps become very painful, red, or hot to the touch
  • You develop a fever or unexplained weight loss

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is globus sensation and how is it treated?

Globus sensation is a feeling of having a lump in the throat, often related to stress or anxiety. Treatment usually involves managing stress through relaxation techniques or therapy.


What could cause swollen lymph nodes and how are they treated?

Swollen lymph nodes, or lymphadenopathy, can be caused by infections, immune disorders, or cancers. Treatment depends on the cause, ranging from antibiotics for infections to more intensive treatments like chemotherapy for cancer.


What are the symptoms of a hernia and how is it treated?

A hernia is characterized by a lump in the groin area, which may be painful and worsen with straining. Treatment often involves surgical repair to prevent complications.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for these symptoms?

Immediate medical attention is needed if you experience difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, very painful or red lumps, or symptoms like fever or unexplained weight loss.


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