[30F] With mouth pain and systemic symptoms

Patient Description

A 30-year-old female presents with a painful bump on the bottom of her foot, fatigue, irritability, and soreness between the gums and the top right far back tooth. She reports swollen lymph nodes on both sides of her neck, back pain in the top, middle, and lower back, lightheadedness, dizziness, and brain fog. The mouth pain is described as a stinging sensation, especially after eating, and is rated as a 9 out of 10 in severity. The patient notes redness and some swelling in the affected area of the mouth, along with a bad taste. There is no associated fever, chills, difficulty swallowing, or opening the mouth fully. The patient maintains oral hygiene by brushing twice daily. The symptoms have persisted for approximately three weeks, impacting daily activities and energy levels.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

Dental Abscess: This is an infection that can occur at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. It can cause severe pain, swelling, redness, and a bad taste in the mouth. Given the severity of your pain and the presence of swelling and a bad taste, this is a possibility that should be evaluated by a dentist promptly. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess and may require antibiotics.
Gingivitis or Periodontitis: These are gum infections that can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the gums. They can also lead to a bad taste in the mouth. Good oral hygiene is crucial, but if the condition persists, a dental professional should assess it. Treatment may involve professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene practices.
Other Oral Infections: There are other types of oral infections that could cause similar symptoms, such as a fungal infection or viral infection. These would require specific treatments based on the type of infection.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

Rinse with Warm Salt Water: This can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently.
Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing twice a day and flossing daily to keep the area clean.
Avoid Irritants: Try to avoid foods that are too hot, cold, or spicy, as they may aggravate the pain.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the pain, following the instructions on the label.
Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

What you should look out for

Seek more urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

Increased swelling or pain that becomes unbearable
Development of a fever or chills
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Pus or discharge from the affected area

It's important to see a dentist to evaluate the cause of the pain and swelling, especially since it's been persistent and severe. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

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4 d ago

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