Nasal and Throat Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Discomfort in the nose and throat?

Hello Doctor: In recent days, I have been experiencing the following symptoms: 1.
Pain in the right nostril while breathing, with some blood streaks in the nasal mucus (but no nasal congestion).
2.
Slight pain at the top of my head on the right side.
3.
Swelling and mild pain in the right side of my neck compared to the left side.
I visited an ENT specialist on April 3rd, who diagnosed me with inflammation of the nose and throat, advising me to drink plenty of water and take medication.
However, I am still concerned as my symptoms are similar to those described online for nasopharyngeal cancer.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor if further examination is necessary.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/03

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if the symptoms do not improve, please return for a follow-up appointment so that the physician can examine the nasopharynx to determine if there are any issues.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/04/03

More Info

When experiencing discomfort in the nasal and throat regions, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek further evaluation. Based on your symptoms, which include pain in the right nostril, blood-tinged nasal discharge, slight headache on the right side, and mild swelling in the right neck, it is understandable to be concerned, especially with the mention of nasopharyngeal cancer symptoms.

Firstly, your symptoms suggest a possible upper respiratory infection or inflammation, which is common and often resolves with conservative treatment, such as hydration and medication as advised by your ENT specialist. The presence of blood in the nasal discharge can be alarming, but it is not uncommon for nasal mucosa to bleed, especially if there is irritation or inflammation. This can occur due to dry air, frequent nose blowing, or minor trauma to the nasal passages.

The slight headache localized to the right side could be related to sinus pressure or tension headaches, which can accompany nasal inflammation. The swelling in the neck may indicate lymphadenopathy, which is often a response to infection. Infections can cause nearby lymph nodes to swell as they work to fight off pathogens.

However, your concern regarding nasopharyngeal cancer is valid, especially given the overlapping symptoms. Nasopharyngeal cancer can present with nasal obstruction, epistaxis (nosebleeds), neck masses, and headaches. It is more common in certain demographics, including individuals of Southeast Asian descent, those with a family history of the disease, or those with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.

Given that you have already consulted with an ENT specialist who diagnosed you with nasal and throat inflammation, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, or if you develop new symptoms such as significant weight loss, persistent pain, or difficulty swallowing, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. This could include imaging studies such as a CT scan of the head and neck or a nasopharyngoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the nasopharynx.

In summary, while your current symptoms may be indicative of a benign condition, it is essential to remain vigilant. If your symptoms do not improve with the prescribed treatment or if you have any new concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to return to your healthcare provider for further assessment. Early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential health issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Nasal and Throat Issues: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello, the symptoms have persisted for two months. I have visited two small clinics four times (3 days each) and the second clinic twice (3 days each) without any improvement. Symptoms include: 1. A sour sensation around the bridge of the nose, along with a similar sensation in t...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, yellow-green nasal discharge, fever, facial pain, foul smell, and changes in smell, but not all symptoms may appear. Diagnostic methods include endoscopy and imaging studies. If acute sinusitis persists despite antibio...

Understanding Throat Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Hello, my mother has recently been experiencing discomfort in her throat, feeling as if something is stuck while eating, making it difficult to swallow. She went to the hospital for an examination, and they mentioned that there is a growth in her throat, but no X-rays or endoscop...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Your symptoms seem to resemble a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Please take the time to schedule an appointment at the outpatient clinic for confirmation.

Persistent Throat Discomfort: Understanding ENT Symptoms and Solutions

I have been experiencing discomfort in my throat for over a month. Initially, it felt like there was something foreign in my throat without any other symptoms. Then it progressed to occasional pain, white phlegm, and post-nasal drip. Now, I wake up in the morning with green phleg...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello Mr. Tsai, The situation you described may be indicative of chronic pharyngitis (especially if you are experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in your throat). It is recommended that you undergo a laryngoscopy to rule out any masses, as well as receive pharmacological t...

Throat Discomfort: What Tests Should You Consider for Relief?

Two weeks ago, while picking my nose, I suspected that I inhaled a tiny particle that I couldn't get out. I didn't pay much attention to it, but the next day my throat started to feel swollen, and I had a strong sensation of a foreign body when swallowing. A few days la...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you have undergone an endoscopic examination and ruled out the presence of any masses, it is possible that you are experiencing chronic pharyngitis. In addition to medication, daily lifestyle recommendations include: avoid lying down for two hours after eating, and refr...