Seeking Guidance on Ongoing Facial and Neck Swelling
Hello everyone. I’m a 28-year-old female who has been struggling with ongoing swelling in my face and neck for over two months. It initially started under my chin and along my right jawline, but the swelling has now extended to the left side as well. Despite multiple visits to emergency rooms and undergoing various imaging tests, I feel as though my concerns are being overlooked, and I find myself having to fight for answers alone. This situation has left me frightened and exhausted. ### Main Concerns: - The swelling began on May 7, 2025, and has progressively worsened. - I’ve been to four different hospitals and consulted several healthcare professionals, yet the only treatments I have received are temporary relief techniques or antibiotics. - Presenting symptoms include: - Persistent tightness and tenderness beneath my jaw - Pain in the area of my submandibular glands - Discomfort in my right ear - Swollen and reddened Wharton’s duct - Pain while eating and drinking - Production of thick, milky saliva - Pressure and discomfort in my upper chest ### Imaging Results: - I underwent a CT scan of the neck with contrast on June 3, 2025. - Results indicated mild inflammatory thickening of soft tissues surrounding the uvula and oropharynx with no signs of an abscess or problematic lymph nodes. - My salivary glands and thyroid were noted as “unremarkable.” Despite having two CT scans for this issue, some emergency room staff have suggested I’ve had too many scans while I continue to exhibit symptoms without a diagnosis. ### Antibiotic Treatment History (2025): - February: Doxycycline prescribed for ureaplasma infection - March: Cefdinir and Augmentin administered for H. parainfluenza - May: Clindamycin given for swelling of the glands - Late May: Additional dosage of clindamycin for a tooth abscess - June 1: Extraction of a right upper molar - Late June: Augmentin prescribed due to recurrent swelling - July: Augmentin was prescribed again after a spike in symptoms ### Feelings of Disappointment: I genuinely feel let down by the medical system. I am diligently requesting follow-up imaging, documenting my symptoms, and striving to remain patient. Yet, my glands are now visibly swollen and protruding from my neck, and my pleas for help seem to fall on deaf ears. I’ve requested MRIs and ultrasounds for soft tissue, only to be told I have already had sufficient imaging. I am at a loss for what steps to take next. I have an upcoming appointment with an ENT specialist on July 15, but I am worried that there may be a more serious underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Additionally, with travel plans on the horizon, I am anxious that my condition may deteriorate while I am away. ### What I'm Seeking: - Has anyone experienced salivary gland inflammation or duct issues that were not apparent in imaging? - Is it possible that I could be dealing with chronic sialadenitis or a blockage in my salivary ducts, even with CT reports labeling my glands as unremarkable? - Any advice on what I should discuss with my ENT, or particular tests I should consider requesting? - Could this scenario potentially be linked to autoimmune issues or post-infectious inflammation? I sincerely appreciate any feedback or guidance. I’m not trying to dramatize my situation—I just want to restore my facial appearance and overall quality of life. I’ve been keeping meticulous records of my condition, but I am weary yet resolute in finding a solution to my health challenges.
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 6:20:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing struggles with facial and neck swelling; it sounds incredibly challenging and exhausting. Here’s a summary of your situation alongside some actionable steps you can take before your upcoming ENT appointment.
Main Points
You have persistent swelling in your face and neck with associated discomfort and challenges, and you are exploring the possibility of chronic sialadenitis or salivary duct blockage. Your upcoming appointment with the ENT specialist is crucial.
Explanation
Swelling in the face and neck area, particularly around the jaw and salivary glands, can be indicative of several conditions, including chronic sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary glands), duct obstruction, infections, or even autoimmune issues. While initial imaging suggests no significant abnormalities, your persistent symptoms warrant further investigation.
Chronic sialadenitis can occur even in the absence of evident issues on imaging and may involve recurrent inflammation and pain. Understanding the interaction of your saliva production, duct health, and inflammation is key to proper management.
Actionable Next Steps
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Prepare for Your ENT Appointment:
- Symptom Diary: Continue documenting your symptoms, noting any changes, triggers (like specific foods or activities), and when the pain or swelling worsens. Bring this diary to your appointment.
- Specific Questions: Prepare a list of specific questions to ask your ENT. Relevant questions could include:
- Could my symptoms suggest chronic sialadenitis or duct blockage despite what the imaging shows?
- Are there other tests or imaging (like an ultrasound) that would be appropriate to visualize my salivary glands and ducts more thoroughly?
- Could there be an autoimmune component to my symptoms that might necessitate additional testing?
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Discuss Diagnostic Tests:
- Request if further imaging, like an ultrasound, can be done to assess the soft tissues and salivary glands more closely.
- Inquire about other diagnostic options or specialist referrals (e.g., a rheumatologist) if autoimmune conditions are suspected.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Hydration: Make sure you are staying well-hydrated, as good hydration helps maintain salivary flow and could potentially ease some symptoms.
- Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the swollen areas may help with discomfort and stimulate saliva flow, possibly easing swelling.
- Oral Hygiene: Keep up with good oral hygiene and consider rinsing with warm salt water to help minimize bacteria around affected areas, especially if you're experiencing discomfort during eating.
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Follow Up and Monitor Symptoms:
- After your appointment, monitor your symptoms closely and stay in touch with your healthcare team if you notice any changes, worsening symptoms, or if new symptoms develop.
Closing Support
It's understandable to feel frustrated and anxious about your condition, especially after numerous visits and tests. However, it’s encouraging that you have an appointment scheduled with an ENT, as they can provide specialized insights into your situation. Trust in your diligence and advocate for your health; you're doing everything within your power to seek answers.
Please let me know if you need further clarification on any points, and I wish you the best of luck in your ongoing health journey.
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