Swelling of Lymph Nodes in the Armpit Area
A 24-year-old male, weighing 250 pounds and standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, is currently prescribed mirtazapine. Three weeks ago, I visited my physician regarding painful and swollen lymph nodes in my armpit, as well as experiencing back pain. The doctor assured me that everything was normal and indicated that my body was fighting off an infection, which should resolve itself over time. However, as of today, the symptoms seem to have worsened rather than improved. The lymph nodes have increased in size, and there is now noticeable swelling and bruising in both armpits, accompanied by tenderness and pain. Additionally, my back pain has intensified significantly. For the past few months, I’ve generally felt unwell, but it has been manageable until now. The increased swelling and bruising, however, have raised my concerns, especially since I have not experienced anything similar before. Would it be advisable to see a specialist or to schedule another appointment with my primary care physician? I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thank you.
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 9:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about the worsening symptoms you’re experiencing, particularly with the swollen lymph nodes, tenderness, and increased back pain. These symptoms could indicate the body is fighting something, but the persistence and worsening of your condition suggest that further evaluation is warranted.
Explanation
Lymph nodes can swell for various reasons, often indicating that your body is responding to an infection or illness. However, when swelling is accompanied by bruising, increased tenderness, and significant changes in general well-being, it may require a more thorough investigation to rule out serious conditions.
Next Steps
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Schedule an Appointment with Your Primary Care Physician: Given that your symptoms have worsened over three weeks, it’s essential to revisit your doctor. Explain your escalating symptoms clearly—especially the bruising, increased lymph node size, and back pain.
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of when your symptoms started and any changes over time. Note how the swelling, pain, and any other sensations change day by day. This information will help your physician assess your situation more effectively.
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Monitor for Additional Symptoms: Pay attention to any new or worsening symptoms such as fever, night sweats, drastic weight loss, fatigue, or changes in appetite. Report these to your doctor, as they can provide additional context about your health status.
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Avoid Self-Diagnosing: While waiting for your appointment, try not to jump to conclusions about your condition. It’s best to focus on getting a clear diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
Remember, it’s important to take your health concerns seriously, and persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. Your well-being is a priority.
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