[33F] With swollen lymph nodes on the neck

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female reports noticing movable, squishy lymph nodes on the left side of her neck about a week ago, numbering 3 or 4. She has not observed any associated pain, tenderness, fever, night sweats, or recent weight changes. The patient experienced a sore throat subsequent to the discovery of the swollen lymph nodes. She has a history of anxiety diagnosed 5 years ago and is currently on Effexor and Hydroxyzine. No known drug allergies. The patient also mentioned a recent exposure to sick contacts or travel.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

Viral Infection: Viruses like the common cold or flu can cause your lymph nodes to swell. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like a sore throat, which you mentioned you had.
- Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
Bacterial Infection: Certain bacterial infections can also cause swollen lymph nodes. These are usually accompanied by other symptoms, which you do not seem to have.
- Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause swollen lymph nodes. However, these conditions usually have other symptoms like joint pain and fatigue.
- Treatment typically involves medication to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Cancer: Certain types of cancer, like lymphoma or leukemia, can cause swollen lymph nodes. However, these conditions usually have other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, and fever.
- Treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation, or other cancer treatments.

Remember, I am an AI and not a doctor. These are possibilities based on the information you provided and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Monitor your symptoms: Keep an eye on your lymph nodes and any other symptoms you may develop. If your lymph nodes get larger, become painful, or if you develop other symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, see a doctor immediately.
Rest and hydrate: If your swollen lymph nodes are due to a viral infection, rest and hydration can help your body fight off the infection.
Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any discomfort from your swollen lymph nodes.

What you should look out for

Lymph nodes that continue to grow or become painful
Development of other symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss
Lymph nodes that remain swollen for more than a couple of weeks

Remember to seek care from a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Sore Throat: At-Home Management