Persistent Swollen Lymph Nodes and Throat Discomfort
I’m a 26-year-old woman, weighing 120 lbs and standing at 5’6”, who doesn’t smoke and takes no medications. About two weeks ago, I returned from a trip and the very next day began to experience a mild sore throat. Initially, I didn’t think anything of it since the discomfort was quite bearable; however, soon after, my lymph nodes on one side of my neck became noticeably enlarged, and every time I attempted to swallow, I felt something lodged in my throat. While I noticed a couple of small white spots, the main issue seemed to be my reddened throat accompanied by irregular bumps that somewhat resembled a cobblestone texture. My doctor ruled out thrush as a potential cause. I underwent tests for strep throat, mono, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, all of which returned negative. Nevertheless, my physician prescribed a 10-day course of amoxicillin. By the sixth day of treatment, I began to feel some relief, and I completed the full course just yesterday. Unfortunately, I'm still experiencing the same sensations in my throat along with the swollen lymph nodes. I’m wondering if this could be viral in nature. What steps should I take next? Is it advisable to wait it out while doing saltwater gargles? I’m reluctant to resort to antibiotics again due to the toll they’ve taken on my system in the past.
Answers (1)
4/23/2025, 1:10:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with lingering throat discomfort and swollen lymph nodes, which can certainly be concerning. While you've already ruled out several bacterial infections with your tests and completed a course of antibiotics, it's possible that your symptoms could be due to a viral infection or an immune response to something else.
Key Takeaways:
- Your symptoms may continue after a bacterial infection has been treated, possibly indicating a viral infection or ongoing irritation.
- Persistent swelling and throat discomfort usually improve on their own but should be monitored.
Explanation: After an illness, it can take some time for the body to fully recover, especially if the immune system is still responding. Viral infections can cause symptoms similar to yours, and the body's lymph nodes can remain swollen for a while as they continue to fight off lingering infections or inflammation. It's also common for throat irritation to persist after the primary infection has resolved.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Monitoring: Keep observing your symptoms over the next few days. Note any changes in your throat sensation, lymph node swelling, or if you develop new symptoms like fever, increased pain, or trouble breathing.
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Home Care:
- Saltwater Gargles: Continue doing saltwater gargles (mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day to alleviate throat discomfort.
- Hydration & Rest: Stay well-hydrated and ensure you're getting enough rest, as this supports your immune system.
- Lozenges: Consider throat lozenges or sprays for comfort, as they can help soothe irritation.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, or spicy foods that might further irritate your throat.
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Follow-Up Plan: If symptoms do not start to improve in another week, or if they worsen, consider scheduling a follow-up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They might want to explore other potential causes like allergies or additional viral infections.
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Limit Antibiotics: I understand your concern regarding antibiotics, and it's wise to avoid unnecessary use. Focus on supportive care and let your body heal.
Remember to listen to your body and prioritize your comfort; if you feel that something is amiss, seeking medical advice is always a good option. Let me know if you have more questions or need further assistance!
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