Chest Symptoms: When to See a Specialist for Lumps and Discomfort - Pulmonology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your chest symptoms and the lump you’ve noticed. Based on the symptoms you’ve described, it’s understandable to feel anxious about what might be happening with your health.
Firstly, the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, along with the lump in your right armpit and the changes in your body temperature, can be concerning. While I cannot provide a diagnosis, I can offer some insights into what these symptoms might indicate and when it would be appropriate to seek medical attention.

The lump you’ve described in your armpit could potentially be a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes can swell for various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or more serious conditions like lymphoma. The fact that you mentioned it is not painful when pressed is somewhat reassuring, but it does not rule out the need for further evaluation.

The difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, combined with the sensation of a lump in your throat, could be related to several conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infections, or even structural abnormalities in the throat. Given your history of smoking, it is also important to consider that smoking can lead to various throat and lung conditions, including chronic bronchitis and an increased risk of cancers.

Your fluctuating body temperature, particularly the feeling of heat in your face and eyes, could be related to an infection or inflammation in the body. It’s crucial to monitor these symptoms closely, especially if they persist or worsen.

Given these symptoms, I recommend that you see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Specifically, you should consider visiting an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. They can perform a thorough examination of your throat and neck, and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to assess the lump and any other abnormalities.

Additionally, if the ENT specialist deems it necessary, they may refer you to a hematologist or oncologist to evaluate the lymph node further, especially if there are concerns about lymphoma or other malignancies. It’s essential to address these symptoms promptly, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

In the meantime, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle by avoiding smoking and managing stress, as these can exacerbate symptoms. Ensure you stay hydrated and consider keeping a symptom diary to track any changes or patterns in your symptoms, which can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

In summary, while your symptoms could be due to a variety of causes, it is crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any serious conditions. An ENT specialist will be able to provide you with the appropriate evaluation and guide you on the next steps. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!