Enlarged Lymph Nodes or Another Concern?
At 32 years of age, I've been struggling with an unidentified systemic condition that has noticeably worsened over the past year. Recently, I consulted a rheumatologist who ruled out autoimmune disorders through testing. However, I have been experiencing enlarged lymph nodes, primarily on the left side, and they do not cause me any pain. Although I underwent an MRI, the lymph nodes were not referenced in the results. Can anyone clarify whether these noticeable swellings are indeed lymph nodes?
Answers (1)
7/5/2025, 3:30:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing noticeable swellings that may be lymph nodes, which can sometimes be concerning, especially when you're dealing with a systemic condition. The fact that the lymph nodes you mentioned are painless is generally a reassuring sign, but understanding their nature is important for your peace of mind.
Explanation: Lymph nodes can become enlarged for various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or less commonly, other more serious conditions. Since you've already consulted a rheumatologist and they ruled out autoimmune disorders, it's a positive step, indicating that the cause may be less complex. However, it’s understandable to want clarity, especially if there are systemic symptoms. The MRI results not referencing the lymph nodes means they weren't considered significant, but it doesn’t entirely rule out potential issues.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the size of the lymph nodes. If they start to grow larger, or if you develop new symptoms (like fever, night sweats, or weight loss), take note of these changes.
-
Self-Examine Regularly: For reassurance, you can gently palpate the areas where you notice swelling to track any changes in size or tenderness.
-
Communicate Concerns: If the lymph nodes continue to concern you or there are changes, consider discussing with your current doctor the possibility of further imaging or referral to another specialist for additional insights, particularly focused on the lymphatic system.
-
Maintain Overall Health: Ensure you’re staying hydrated, practicing good nutrition, and managing stress, as these factors can influence your immune system and overall well-being.
Remember, it’s okay to seek clarity and reassurance when navigating health concerns, especially when dealing with unknown systemic issues. Let me know if you need more specific details or guidance!
Related Questions
Recurring Throat Abscesses After Tonsil Removal: What's Going On?
At 27 years of age, I underwent tonsillectomy 11 years back due to frequent strep throat episodes. For a long time, I enjoyed good health without any throat problems, until earlier this year when I began experiencing intermittent sore throats, predominantly on one side. These discomforts typically lasted a few days before resolving on their own, so I didn't think much of them. However, last month, I awoke with severe pain and swelling in my throat, making it difficult for me to speak. Upon inspecting my throat in the mirror, I noticed pus oozing from the area where my tonsils used to be, which caused me significant alarm. I immediately resorted to gargling salt water, which provided quick relief. Unfortunately, this morning I encountered a similar situation, but this time the discomfort had shifted to the opposite side of my throat. It seems that these abscesses are somehow draining spontaneously when I open my mouth widely. Generally, I consider myself to be a healthy and active individual, with no significant dental problems aside from this troubling issue. I find myself increasingly anxious about the possibility of this becoming a recurring condition. As I'm currently without health insurance, seeking help from an ENT specialist in my locality would be quite costly. Could these symptoms be indicative of peritonsillar abscesses or could there be another underlying issue?
Seeking Guidance on Persistent Symptoms
I’m a 22-year-old male weighing 80 kg, and I’m reaching out for advice regarding some troubling health issues. For several years, I have dealt with depression, anxiety, and insomnia, which led me to use prodep (10 mg) for a four-year period, along with clonazepam on an as-needed basis. I have recently discontinued prodep. Currently, I experience intermittent fever-like sensations that come and go. Over the last three years, I’ve undergone three ultrasounds, which indicated grade 1 fatty liver and mild enlargement of the spleen. A recent liver function test (LFT) showed a slight rise in my AST levels. Despite having these recurring feverish feelings, which resolve on their own, the underlying cause remains unknown. I tested for vitamin B12, vitamin D, ferritin, and thyroid functions—all of which returned normal results. Additionally, an ANA profile test, along with brain and thoracic MRIs, revealed no abnormalities. Alongside these symptoms, I often experience rapid bloating accompanied by burping, and I frequently notice undigested food in my stool. Tests for ESR and CRP indicated no significant issues. My diet primarily consists of fruits, and I still struggle with persistent bloating and feverish feelings. This has been ongoing for nearly three years, and despite my efforts, I have been unable to identify the cause. Moreover, I’m dealing with stubborn grade 4 acne that adds to my concerns. Eating—even simple foods—has become a challenge due to the uncomfortable bloating. I’m seeking assistance in obtaining a proper diagnosis and additional tests that could lead to permanent treatment solutions for these issues.
Concerns About Possible Folliculitis or Herpes?
My partner, aged 32, has recently noticed some unusual spots appearing on the shaft of his penis. He believes these lesions emerged following the use of an old razor during shaving. While he has yet to consult a dermatologist, he has begun applying topical clindamycin in hopes of alleviating the condition. I’m feeling anxious about the possibility of it being herpes; however, the symptoms seem more consistent with folliculitis. I’m curious to hear what others think about this situation. He has no notable medical history to mention.
Dealing with Unwanted Erections Linked to IBS Flare-Ups
Greetings everyone, I'm a 23-year-old male grappling with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and I’m looking for some guidance regarding a perplexing issue I face. Whenever I experience a flare-up of my IBS and begin to sense impending bowel movements, I invariably find myself dealing with an erection. This occurrence is often uncomfortable and distinctly heightened. I suspect that this reaction may stem from heightened blood circulation in my pelvic region or the connections with surrounding muscles. Nevertheless, this situation significantly detracts from my overall well-being, and I haven’t found much support from either my primary care physician or my gastroenterologist. Is there anyone else out there who has encountered a similar predicament?
Concerns Over Potential HTLV Infection and Ongoing Symptoms
I am a 25-year-old female, standing at a height of 5’3”, who is not taking any medications and maintains a lifestyle free from smoking and alcohol consumption. On October 11, 2024, I engaged in unprotected intercourse with a new partner, both of us being diagnosed with HSV-2. The very next morning, I began to experience unusual sensations in the vagina. On October 12, my partner took an STI test, which returned negative results for various infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis A, B, and C, HSV-1, HIV, and syphilis. However, by the following week, I was suffering from notable irritation, inflammation, and painful urination. My physician prescribed Metrogel, which alleviated the burning sensation but did not resolve the ongoing irritation. In November 2024, I received a diagnosis of Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma genitalium. My partner tested negative for Mycoplasma genitalium. After successfully completing treatment for both infections by April 6, 2025, I had a follow-up consultation on May 5, 2025, where I underwent a comprehensive swab and urine test. The results indicated negativity for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and various other pathogens, including both types of Mycoplasma, ureaplasma, HIV, and others. My urine test was mostly normal, except for the presence of ketones, likely due to fasting. The genital culture revealed a mild presence of Group B Streptococcus, which was treated with amoxicillin, leading to clearing of the infection. Despite these treatments, I still endure pelvic pain and general vaginal discomfort. Recently, I identified a slight white/gray discharge, but it has no odor. After finishing my course of amoxicillin, I took an Evvy test two weeks later that indicated almost no beneficial bacteria, with 100% categorized as disruptive bacteria. The breakdown showed high levels of Gardnerella, among other bacteria. I plan to begin a regimen of 5–7 days of boric acid, followed by another 5–7 days of Metrogel, and then will incorporate probiotic suppositories as well. Separately, I've become increasingly anxious about HTLV, a sexually transmitted infection that I learned can produce neurological symptoms. Since late February, I have noticed concerning symptoms on my right side, including swelling and tingling in the leg, tightness in my clothing, and by April, feelings of coldness and heaviness in the same area. Emergency room visits have ruled out blood clots and major issues like strokes through various tests, including bloodwork and imaging such as ultrasound, EKG, and CT scan. Throughout May and June, my symptoms worsened, presenting as additional tingling and numbness in my right arm, pressure behind my right eye, tightness in my breathing, muscle twitches, stability problems, mild difficulties with swallowing, and intermittent pressure in my right ear. Recently, I have also begun experiencing tightness in both calves. I consulted a neurologist who ordered MRIs of my brain, ocular regions, cervical and thoracic spine with and without contrast, all of which returned normal without signs of stroke or multiple sclerosis. I also have an EMG scheduled later this week. Moreover, extensive tests for immunology, thyroid functions, gastrointestinal evaluations including both colonoscopy and endoscopy, and RA/ANA testing yielded normal results. I've reached out to my immunologist regarding the possibility of testing for HTLV and am currently awaiting her response. This situation has ignited a deep concern within me, particularly because I’m unsure of the sexual history of my October partner. I trust he didn’t have other partners from high-risk areas, but I can't be certain. Additionally, my earlier partner in 2023, who transmitted HIV and gonorrhea to me, also raises concerns since I don’t have knowledge of his full sexual history, and he lived in Miami for a period, potentially exposing himself to higher-risk encounters. These uncertainties weigh heavily on my mind and contribute significantly to my anxiety about my health.