Nausea and Neck Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions

Q: Nausea and Neck Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions

Dear Miss Anonymous：<br>1. <br>Regarding your lower abdominal discomfort, in addition to considering issues related to the uterus and ovaries, it is also important to think about potential problems with the ureters, bladder, or lower gastrointestinal tract. <br>Therefore, we gene

Pain in the submandibular area with nausea?

Hello, since April 28, I have been experiencing a persistent feeling of nausea and slight dizziness (but I still have an appetite), along with sharp pain in the area of the uterus and ovaries.
(It cannot be pregnancy as I have not had sexual intercourse in the past six months, and my last menstrual period was on April 12.) I have seen a general practitioner, who after examination estimated that it is not pelvic inflammatory disease.
At that time, the doctor stated that they did not know the cause of the nausea.
However, three days later, the sharp pain and nausea have not diminished.
Additionally, I have had swelling on both sides of my neck under the jaw for a year, with pain on the right side of my neck under the jaw.
Three months ago, after taking antibiotics for two weeks, the pain subsided but the swelling remained.

1.
Could the feeling of nausea be related to the neck issue or the uterine issue?
2.
Do I need to see a doctor for the neck issue?
3.
Could the neck issue be a lymphatic bacterial infection? Can it last for such a long time?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/02

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss Anonymous:
1.
Regarding your lower abdominal discomfort, in addition to considering issues related to the uterus and ovaries, it is also important to think about potential problems with the ureters, bladder, or lower gastrointestinal tract.
Therefore, we generally consider common conditions such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, ureteral stones, bladder stones or infections, diverticulitis, or enteritis in the lower intestines, among others.
Of course, cancer and autoimmune diseases may also be considered at times.
It would be advisable for you to discuss this further with your family physician or to seek follow-up care at a regional hospital's obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic.
2.
Regarding the swelling on both sides of your jaw for a year and the pain on the right side of your neck, which improved after taking antibiotics for two weeks three months ago but still remains swollen, it is likely that the attending physician at that time considered lymphadenopathy and prescribed antibiotics as a treatment.
This is a common clinical decision, as most cases of cervical lymphadenopathy are due to inflammation caused by pathogens.
Therefore, antibiotics are typically used for 1 to 2 weeks; if symptoms improve, then there is usually no concern.
However, since the swelling has persisted for a year, there may be a chronic inflammatory condition leading to lymphadenopathy that, while not worsening, may not completely resolve immediately.
It may remain this way for a while longer or may gradually decrease over time.

Please be advised that if symptoms recur or if the lymph nodes continue to enlarge, you should consult an otolaryngologist.
If necessary, a pathological biopsy of the lymph nodes may be required to evaluate for conditions such as lymphoma, metastatic cancer in the lymph nodes, or lymphadenitis due to tuberculosis, which cannot be treated with antibiotics alone.
If you have further questions, please discuss them with your family physician before making any decisions.

Reply Date: 2020/05/02

More Info

Understanding the symptoms of nausea and neck pain can be complex, as they may arise from various underlying conditions. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing persistent nausea, a sensation of dizziness, and localized pain in the neck and lower jaw area, alongside a history of swelling in the neck region. Let's break down your concerns and explore possible causes and solutions.

1. Nausea and Its Possible Causes: Nausea can be attributed to a wide range of factors, including gastrointestinal issues, hormonal changes, or even neurological conditions. In your case, since you have ruled out pelvic inflammatory disease and pregnancy, it may be worth considering other gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis, acid reflux, or even a viral infection. Additionally, stress and anxiety can also manifest as physical symptoms, including nausea. The sensation of dizziness you mentioned could be related to inner ear issues or even tension headaches, which can sometimes accompany neck pain.

2. Neck Pain and Its Connection to Nausea: Neck pain can indeed be linked to nausea, especially if there is significant muscle tension or nerve involvement. Conditions such as cervical spondylosis or muscle strain can lead to referred pain and discomfort that may affect the head and cause nausea. The swelling you described in the neck area, particularly around the jaw, raises the possibility of lymphadenopathy, which could indicate an infection or inflammation in the region. If the swelling persists, it is essential to investigate further, as chronic lymphadenopathy can sometimes be a sign of underlying issues, including infections or even malignancies.

3. Need for Medical Evaluation: Given the duration and persistence of your symptoms, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. A visit to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist may be beneficial to assess the swelling in your neck and jaw area. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to evaluate the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues. Additionally, if there is a concern about a possible infection, blood tests may be warranted to check for signs of inflammation or infection.

4. Lymphatic Infection Considerations: Chronic lymph node swelling can be due to various infections, including bacterial or viral infections. If you suspect a bacterial infection, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who may prescribe antibiotics if necessary. However, if the swelling has persisted for a year, it is less likely to be an acute infection and more likely to be a chronic condition that requires further investigation.

5. Management Strategies: In the meantime, managing your symptoms can involve several strategies. Staying hydrated, eating small, frequent meals, and avoiding triggers that worsen your nausea can be helpful. Gentle neck stretches and relaxation techniques may alleviate some tension in the neck area. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also provide temporary relief from discomfort, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

In summary, your symptoms of nausea and neck pain warrant further investigation to determine their underlying causes. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Don't hesitate to seek help, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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