Submandibular Lymph Node Inflammation: When to Seek Further Care

Inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes?

Hello Dr.
Zheng, I previously asked about the lymphadenopathy in my lower jaw, which is still present.
My family and colleagues have mentioned that it seems to have decreased in size.
When I visited the specialist, they only performed a neck ultrasound and mentioned it was inflammation.
I am still worried and asked my family physician if I need further examinations at another hospital.
The family physician said that the neck was already scanned and it appears to be just inflammation, so further tests may not be necessary.
My family suggested seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, who also confirmed it was inflammation.
In the meantime, I have developed a toothache and mouth sores.
I have not fully recovered from the acne treatment on my face, but there has been some improvement.
Should I seek further examination? It has been a month, and I feel it has decreased in size.
Sometimes I feel tightness in my neck, and I am unsure if it is due to lymphatic inflammation.
Occasionally, I feel nauseous, especially upon waking (not sure if it's caused by the dermatology medication).
The large hospital did not prescribe any medication.
What should I do, doctor? I am concerned that it might be something serious.
The dermatology medication prescribed includes soothing tablets (active ingredient: oxethazaine) and doxycycline, one tablet each in the morning and evening.

michelle, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/10

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, infections in the head and neck region can lead to inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes.
If you have already been examined and the size of the lymph nodes is decreasing, it is mostly a benign sign, and follow-up is recommended.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/03/10

More Info

When it comes to submandibular lymph node inflammation, it is essential to understand the underlying causes, symptoms, and when to seek further medical care. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent swelling in the submandibular lymph nodes, along with additional symptoms such as dental pain, mouth ulcers, and facial acne. These symptoms can be indicative of various conditions, including infections, inflammatory processes, or even malignancies.

Firstly, lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system and play a crucial role in the immune response. They can become swollen due to infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, or due to inflammatory conditions. In your case, the ultrasound indicated inflammation, which is a common response to infection or irritation. The fact that your lymph nodes have reportedly decreased in size is a positive sign, suggesting that the inflammation may be resolving.

However, the presence of dental pain and mouth ulcers raises some concerns. Dental issues can lead to localized infections that may cause lymph node enlargement. If you have not already done so, it is advisable to consult a dentist to rule out any dental abscesses or other oral health issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
The tightness in your neck and feelings of nausea, particularly upon waking, could be related to several factors, including anxiety, medication side effects, or even gastrointestinal issues. The medication you mentioned, Doxycycline, is an antibiotic that can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea. If you suspect that your medication is contributing to your symptoms, it is crucial to discuss this with your prescribing physician.

Given that it has been a month since the onset of your symptoms, and you are still experiencing discomfort, it may be prudent to seek further evaluation. While your family physician and the specialists you have seen may have assessed your condition as manageable, persistent symptoms warrant a more thorough investigation. You might consider asking for additional tests, such as blood tests to check for infection or inflammation markers, or even a referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for a more detailed examination of your lymph nodes and throat.

In summary, while the reduction in lymph node size is encouraging, the persistence of your symptoms, particularly the dental pain and nausea, suggests that further evaluation may be necessary. Consulting with a dentist and possibly an ENT specialist could provide more clarity on your condition. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so do not hesitate to seek further care if you feel it is warranted.

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