Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Neck and Armpits
I am a 24-year-old male with no notable family medical history, and I abstain from smoking and drinking. Beginning around May 10th, I began experiencing discomfort in my right armpit, which subsequently spread to both armpits. The discomfort was accompanied by nerve pain radiating down to my elbows and fingertips. I sought treatment from a Family Nurse Practitioner on May 29th, receiving a steroid injection, but there was no noticeable improvement. About a week later, on approximately June 8th, we identified swollen lymph nodes in my neck and armpits, all roughly the size of peas, tender (especially in the armpits), and mobile. My provider prescribed azithromycin, suspecting cat scratch fever, yet this medication did not yield any changes. Now, having completed the course, I’ve noticed additional lymph nodes in my neck and one located above my collarbone; these are soft, a bit larger than a pea, mobile, and sore to the touch. I underwent a CT scan with contrast, but I'm still awaiting the results. Over the past month, my symptoms have mostly included mild fatigue (similar to a cold), muscle discomfort, a sore throat (which appears slightly irritated), bilateral deep ear pain, and minor jaw pain on the right side. There have been no occurrences of night sweats, weight loss, or notable fatigue. Update: My lab results are satisfactory, with my white blood cell count showing an upward trend within a week, now sitting at 7.8, though still within normal limits from an initial 5.1. What could this indicate? Should I take any particular steps moving forward?
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 6:01:33 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes, discomfort, and fatigue are understandably concerning, especially given their persistence and changes over time. The key points are:
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Symptoms and Findings: You have mobile and tender lymph nodes in the neck and armpits, along with mild fatigue, muscle discomfort, and throat irritation. Your CT scan results are pending, which will help clarify any underlying issues.
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Possible Causes: The combination of your symptoms may suggest a viral or bacterial infection, an autoimmune condition, or other considerations. Your healthcare provider mentioned cat scratch fever, but continued symptoms after treatment could point to alternative causes that need further investigation, especially if you are also experiencing new or worsening lymph nodes.
Next Steps:
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Continue Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, such as the size of the lymph nodes, additional discomfort, fatigue levels, or new symptoms. This information will be crucial for your healthcare provider.
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Stay Engaged with Your Provider: Await the CT scan results and discuss them with your healthcare provider when available to interpret what they might indicate and what further steps should be taken. If symptoms worsen or new concerning symptoms develop, don't hesitate to reach out to them sooner.
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Symptom Management: For the discomfort and muscle soreness, consider over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, which can help alleviate some of your symptoms.
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Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated and maintain a regular sleep schedule to help support your immune system.
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Follow-up Actions: If after the evaluation you are still experiencing persistent symptoms, discuss the possibility of further testing (like blood tests for specific infections or autoimmune conditions) with your healthcare provider.
It's good to remain proactive in your health, and your attention to these symptoms is important. You're not alone in this; your healthcare team is there to support you in finding answers and management options.
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