[61F] With enlarged cervical lymph nodes and associated symptoms
Patient Description
A 61-year-old female presents with enlarged cervical lymph nodes, which have been continuously enlarged for four months. The nodes are described as rubbery and approximately 2.2 cm in size. Accompanying symptoms include difficulty swallowing, particularly noticeable at night, and a sensation of the throat closing. The patient also reports voice changes, such as breaking and altered pitch when speaking loudly or singing, which have been present since Christmas. Relief from these voice symptoms is achieved by not talking. Additionally, the patient experiences night sweats twice a week, which have been occurring for two months, and is post-menopausal. There are also rashes on the arms and legs, with itching on the palms and legs at night. The patient has a history of a double bypass surgery six years ago. There are no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications, and the patient has not specified any current medications.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:
- Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, the body's disease-fighting network. The most common symptom is painless swelling of lymph nodes in your neck, armpits or groin. Other symptoms may include night sweats, fever, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and skin rash.
- Diagnostic tests for lymphoma typically include imaging tests (like CT scans), blood tests, and a biopsy of the enlarged lymph node.
- Thyroid disorders: Your thyroid gland produces hormones that control your body's metabolism. Disorders of the thyroid can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, voice changes, weight loss, and fatigue.
- Diagnostic tests for thyroid disorders typically include blood tests to measure your levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and imaging tests of the thyroid.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause difficulty swallowing.
- Treatment for GERD usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medications or surgery.
What you can do
- Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms.
- Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and what foods you've eaten.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
What you should look out for
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe pain
- High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
- Symptoms that are getting worse or not improving
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's really important you get in touch with a healthcare professional who can make a proper assessment based on a full examination.
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1 yr ago
