Concerns About Lymphoma?
**Subject:** Potential Health Issue **Profile:** 25-year-old female living in the USA, weighing 135 lbs, height 5'7" I'm feeling a sense that something isn't quite right with my health, but I'm uncertain about what exactly might be happening. For over a year now, I've had a lymph node located deep in my neck, beneath my jaw and in the upper throat area, which has felt persistently swollen. After evaluating the situation, my primary care physician assured me that it seemed normal and conducted an ultrasound. The results indicated that the short axis was within the expected range and suggested it was benign; however, the node measured around 2 cm, and I’m unsure how significant that really is. A biopsy was not performed. In addition to this concern, I've noticed experiencing dizziness at times and a sense of breathlessness that seems more prominent than it used to be. My tolerance for alcohol has also diminished, alongside occasional discomfort in the abdomen over these last few months. I haven't experienced any weight loss, night sweats, or fevers, and I don’t feel fatigued. Blood tests came back normal. I tend to be somewhat anxious about health issues, and I'm questioning whether these symptoms could be connected to my existing autoimmune disorders. However, there's definitely a lingering feeling that something is amiss. I’ve undergone various tests, including a clear CT scan of my abdomen, a normal chest X-ray (to rule out COVID), and an ultrasound for both my thyroid (which I have issues with - Hashimoto's) and lymph nodes, all yielding normal results. When I was initially diagnosed with thyroid conditions, my endocrinologist noted some swelling in my thyroid and nearby lymph nodes. Thankfully, since starting treatment, that swelling has subsided, and there are no current indications of thyroid cancer, which I understand to be unrelated to the lymph node issue. Given these factors, should I dismiss my concerns as anxiety, or could these symptoms potentially be linked to my Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune issues? Or do they raise any alarming flags that could suggest cancer or another serious condition?
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 4:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned when you feel something isn’t right with your health, especially with your history of autoimmune disorders. Based on the information provided, it sounds like you have already taken important steps to evaluate your symptoms, including consultations and tests.
Summary of Key Points:
- You have a persistent lymph node that measures around 2 cm but appears benign based on ultrasound.
- You’re experiencing dizziness, breathlessness, reduced tolerance for alcohol, and occasional abdominal discomfort, without significant alarming symptoms like weight loss or night sweats.
- Your concerns may stem from anxiety related to your prior health conditions, but it's important to consider the potential connection between your symptoms and your autoimmune disorder, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Explanation:
The lymph node being 2 cm and stable over time, with benign ultrasound findings, is generally reassuring, but it's natural to have lingering concerns. Your symptoms of dizziness and breathlessness could potentially relate to various factors, including stress, medication side effects, or even changes in your health related to Hashimoto's. Autoimmune disorders can sometimes lead to subtle complications, though serious issues like lymphoma would typically present with more pronounced symptoms like weight loss, fever, or night sweats.
As for the alcohol tolerance and abdominal discomfort, these could also be influenced by stress or other lifestyle factors, but they warrant attention if persistent.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your dizziness, breathlessness, and abdominal discomfort. Note when they occur, their frequency, and any associated activities or stressors. This can provide useful information for future discussions with healthcare providers.
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Manage Stress and Anxiety: Consider practices to help reduce anxiety, such as mindfulness techniques, regular exercise, or talking to a mental health professional. Reducing stress may alleviate some of your physical symptoms.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure you’re eating a balanced diet to support your body, staying hydrated, and getting regular physical activity, which can improve overall well-being.
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Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your primary care provider or endocrinologist to discuss your ongoing concerns. It’s within your rights to seek further evaluation, including possibly revisiting the need for a biopsy or additional imaging, especially if any symptoms worsen.
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Understand Your Autoimmune Condition: Stay informed about how Hashimoto's and any other autoimmune issues might impact your overall health. Connect with support groups or resources that specialize in thyroid health for additional support and education.
If your symptoms worsen or you develop new concerning symptoms, prioritize contacting your healthcare provider promptly. Your concerns are valid, and it’s beneficial to be proactive about your health while also recognizing the reassuring aspects of your recent evaluations.
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