[45F] With swollen lymph node following tick bite

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, here are the most likely explanations for your symptoms:

1. Reactive Lymphadenopathy: The swollen lymph node on the left side of your neck is likely a normal immune response to the tick bite on your scalp. Lymph nodes often swell when they are working to fight off infections or inflammation nearby. The fact that the swelling has decreased in size over the past week is a reassuring sign that your body is resolving the issue.

   • Typical treatment: No specific treatment is needed for reactive lymphadenopathy unless there are signs of infection. Monitoring the lymph node for further changes is usually recommended.

2. Tick Bite Reaction: Tick bites can cause localized swelling and immune activation, which may explain the lymph node enlargement. While you haven’t noticed a rash or other symptoms of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, it’s still important to monitor for any delayed signs, such as fever, joint pain, or a circular rash.

   • Typical treatment: If symptoms of a tick-borne illness develop, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics. For now, no treatment is necessary beyond observation.

3. Benign Positional Dizziness: The dizziness you experienced last week, which improved when lying back, may have been related to changes in blood flow or balance. Since the dizziness resolved as the lymph node swelling decreased, it’s possible the two were linked, but this does not appear to be a serious issue.

   • Typical treatment: No treatment is needed if the dizziness has resolved, but if it recurs, it should be evaluated further, especially given your history of stroke.

Your history of a major stroke and carotid artery stent is important to keep in mind, as it makes monitoring any neurological symptoms, like dizziness, even more critical.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms and monitor your condition:

1. Continue Observing the Lymph Node: Check the size and feel of the lymph node daily. If it continues to shrink, that’s a good sign. If it stops shrinking, becomes hard, fixed, or painful, consult a healthcare provider.

2. Monitor for Tick-Borne Illness Symptoms: Keep an eye out for fever, rash, joint pain, or fatigue over the next few weeks. These could indicate a tick-borne illness like Lyme disease and would require medical attention.

3. Stay Hydrated and Rest: Supporting your immune system with adequate hydration, rest, and a balanced diet can help your body recover from the tick bite and any associated inflammation.

4. Use MDandMe to Track Symptoms: Document the size of the lymph node, any changes in your symptoms, and any new developments in the MDandMe journal. This will help you share detailed information with your doctor if needed.

What you should look out for

Here are some warning signs that would warrant a visit to a healthcare provider:

1. Persistent or Worsening Lymph Node Swelling: If the lymph node stops shrinking, becomes larger, hard, or fixed, or if you notice swelling in other areas of your body.

2. Fever, Rash, or Joint Pain: These could be signs of a tick-borne illness like Lyme disease or another infection.

3. Neurological Symptoms: Given your history of stroke, any new or worsening dizziness, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking should be evaluated immediately.

4. Redness, Warmth, or Pain Around the Lymph Node: These could indicate an infection requiring antibiotics.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue: These symptoms, along with persistent lymph node swelling, could suggest an underlying condition that needs evaluation.

If any of these symptoms occur, don’t wait—contact your healthcare provider promptly. Let me know if you’d like help preparing for a visit or understanding what to expect!