[31F] With swollen neck and associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female presents with a swollen neck on the left side for the past two days. The swelling is tender to the touch and was sudden in onset. Associated symptoms include tingling in the tongue, pain in the neck, ear, and jaw, and blurred vision. The patient reports that the pain around a broken tooth is throbbing and severe, rated as 8 out of 10. She has also experienced fever and chills, difficulty swallowing and breathing that comes and goes, and swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes around the neck and jaw. There is no discharge or foul taste in the mouth, and no recent dental work has been done. The patient is taking Tylenol every 6 hours and has no known pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Dental Abscess: Given the broken tooth and the severe throbbing pain, it's possible you have a dental abscess. This is an infection that can cause swelling, fever, and pain. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening.

  2. Ludwig's Angina: This is a serious, potentially life-threatening bacterial infection of the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. It often results from a dental infection and can cause swelling, pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

  3. Cellulitis: This is a bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness. It can spread rapidly and may be accompanied by fever and chills.

  4. Lymphadenitis: This is an infection of the lymph nodes, which can cause them to become swollen and tender. It often occurs due to a bacterial or viral infection.

What you can do

Given the severity and combination of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Seek Emergency Care: Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center immediately. If you are unable to get there yourself, call 911 or have someone drive you.

  2. Inform Medical Staff: When you arrive, inform the medical staff about your symptoms, including the swollen neck, pain, fever, difficulty swallowing and breathing, and the broken tooth.

  3. Follow Medical Advice: Once you are seen by a healthcare professional, follow their advice and treatment plan. This may include antibiotics, drainage of any abscess, or other interventions.

  4. Pain Management: Continue taking Tylenol as directed for pain relief, but do not exceed the recommended dosage.

  5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If they worsen or you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is essential to get a formal diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional. Your symptoms are serious and require prompt medical evaluation.

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3 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is a dental abscess and how is it treated?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often due to tooth decay, gum disease, or a broken tooth. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess and taking antibiotics to clear the infection. In some cases, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary.

What are the symptoms and risks associated with Ludwig's Angina?

Ludwig's Angina is a serious bacterial infection of the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. Symptoms include swelling, pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and sometimes surgical intervention to drain the infection.

How can cellulitis be identified and what are the treatment options?

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness, and warmth in the affected area. It can spread rapidly and may be accompanied by fever and chills. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

What causes lymphadenitis and how is it managed?

Lymphadenitis is the inflammation of the lymph nodes, often due to a bacterial or viral infection. It causes the nodes to become swollen and tender. Management includes treating the underlying infection with antibiotics or antiviral medications, and pain relief with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol.

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