[35F] With swollen lymph node and oral sores
Patient Description
A 35-year-old female presents with a swollen lymph node on the right jaw line, approximately the size of a quarter, which is extremely painful and movable. Accompanying symptoms include excruciating jaw pain, a sore inside the mouth, a swollen tongue with stabbing pain, and a sore at the corner of the mouth that is swollen, infected, and extends inside. The sore has a white skin-like covering and a red open wound appearance. The patient denies recent dental work, infections, fever, or contact with ill individuals. Medical history includes hypothyroidism (diagnosed 2013), Hashimoto's (2018), anemia (2007), fibromyalgia (2020), lupus (2024), and chronic migraines (2023). Current medications include Levothyroxine 25mg, Adderall 20mg, Lyrica 100mg, Celebrex 100mg, Wellbutrin 150mg, Robaxin 500mg, Topamax 50mg, Emgality, B12 injections, Famatodine 20mg, Pristiq 50mg, Hydroxychloroquine 200mg, and Vitamin D 5000 IU. Allergies include penicillins, Keflex, Lasix, and vancomycin. Pain management involves pain medication from a previous surgery and icing the area. No recent changes in autoimmune conditions or medications noted.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:
-
Infection: The swollen lymph node and sores could indicate an infection, possibly viral or bacterial. Lymph nodes often swell in response to infections.
- Treatment: A healthcare provider might prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. Viral infections usually resolve on their own.
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Oral Ulcers: The sores in your mouth could be oral ulcers, which can be painful and sometimes related to stress or autoimmune conditions.
- Treatment: Topical treatments or mouth rinses can help alleviate pain.
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Autoimmune Flare: Given your history of autoimmune diseases, this could be a flare-up affecting your mouth and lymph nodes.
- Treatment: Your doctor might adjust your current medications or suggest additional treatments.
What you can do
- Pain Management: Continue using pain relief as prescribed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may also help, but check with your doctor due to your medication list.
- Oral Care: Use a gentle mouthwash to keep the area clean. Avoid spicy or acidic foods that might irritate your mouth.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to help your body fight any potential infection.
- Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share notes with your healthcare provider.
What you should look out for
- Seek Medical Attention If:
- The pain becomes unbearable or doesn't improve.
- You develop a fever or notice pus.
- You experience difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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5 mo ago