Swollen Lymph Nodes: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps

Lymphadenopathy

Hello, I experienced tightness in my left neck in mid-October.
However, since I had a recent injury on the right side that required rehabilitation, I thought it might have affected my left neck, causing the discomfort.
At that time, I had no symptoms other than the soreness, and after two or three days, the pain seemed to have disappeared, so I did not seek medical attention.

On October 27, I felt neck pain again.
That night, I stayed up late and did not sleep well.
On October 28, after being exposed to wind all day, I woke up the next morning with a lot of eye discharge (my upper and lower eyelashes were completely coated).
I thought it was due to the windy weather, and I felt a bit like I had a cold.
When I blew my nose, there was a little bit of blood.
Later, on October 30, the left side of my neck became swollen and very painful.
The area near the back of my left neck, close to my ear, felt hard, while the swelling in other areas was softer.

Additionally, on the 27th, I performed oral sex on my boyfriend, whom I recently started dating and do not know much about his past sexual history.
The next morning, I noticed a small ulcer that healed quickly, but because the timing is close, I am a bit worried whether it could be related to a sexually transmitted infection, or if I might have had symptoms prior that I did not notice.

I also have Hashimoto's thyroiditis and thyroid nodules, and I have a dental implant for my upper left wisdom tooth, but I do not think I have any recent cavities.
Therefore, I would like to confirm: 1.
Besides seeing an ENT specialist, should I consult any other specialties? 2.
What information should I provide to the doctor during my visit to convey my concerns? 3.
Is it possible that this could be related to HIV? Thank you.

Xiao Jie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/31

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you have the above concerns, in addition to an ENT examination, you may also consider consulting an infectious disease specialist.
During your visit, you can directly inform the physician of your worries, which will help the attending physician arrange for relevant tests.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/10/31

More Info

Swollen lymph nodes can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when accompanied by other symptoms. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a series of events leading to the swelling of your left cervical lymph nodes, and you have valid concerns regarding the underlying causes. Let's break down your questions and provide some clarity.

1. Which Specialist to See?
Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to start with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, as they are well-equipped to evaluate lymphatic issues in the neck region. However, considering your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and thyroid nodules, it may also be beneficial to consult an endocrinologist. They can assess any potential thyroid-related complications that might be contributing to your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, a visit to a primary care physician may also be warranted to rule out systemic issues.

2. What to Communicate to Your Doctor?
When you visit the doctor, it’s essential to provide a comprehensive overview of your symptoms and medical history. Here are some key points to mention:
- The timeline of your symptoms, including when you first noticed the tightness in your neck and the progression to swelling and pain.

- Any recent activities that could have contributed to your symptoms, such as your injury and the exposure to wind.

- Your experience with the small ulcer after oral contact, as this could be relevant to your doctor’s assessment.

- Your existing medical conditions, particularly Hashimoto's thyroiditis and any thyroid nodules, as these could influence your current health status.

- Any additional symptoms you may have experienced, such as fever, night sweats, or weight loss, which could indicate a more systemic issue.

3. Could This Be Related to HIV?
While swollen lymph nodes can be associated with a variety of conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies, it is important to approach the concern of HIV with a clear understanding. The presence of swollen lymph nodes alone is not sufficient to diagnose HIV. However, if you have engaged in activities that may pose a risk for HIV transmission, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) based on your risk factors and symptoms.

In summary, while swollen lymph nodes can be alarming, they are often a sign of the body responding to an infection or inflammation. Your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Be open and honest about your concerns, and don’t hesitate to ask questions during your visit. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can lead to better outcomes, so seeking medical advice promptly is crucial. Remember, your health is a priority, and addressing these concerns with a qualified professional is the best step forward.

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