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
-
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?
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Related Questions
Assessing My Health Concerns: How Anxious Should I Be?
I’m a 32-year-old woman, weighing 124 pounds and standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall. For over a year, I have been experiencing bright red rectal bleeding. Initially, I attributed this issue to hemorrhoids that developed during my pregnancy two years ago. The bleeding occurs with most of my bowel movements, sometimes happens without one, and on a few occasions, has been enough to stain the toilet bowl significantly. The color of the blood is typically darker than what I observe during a hemorrhoid flare-up. There is a notable family history of bowel cancer on both sides; one family member was diagnosed at age 45, and another at 60. In the past six months, I have encountered several episodes of severe abdominal pain—3 to 4 instances—intense enough to consider a trip to the emergency room. However, the pain usually subsides within about an hour. It’s unusual for me to experience such acute pain, given my high tolerance for discomfort; for example, I once played rugby shortly after dislocating and fracturing my finger. Recently, I mustered the courage to consult with my doctor, who recommended a FIT test, which returned a positive result (30.1). Additionally, I underwent a complete blood test, and aside from having low ferritin levels (7 µg/L), all other results were normal. I have since been referred for a colonoscopy on a two-week waiting list to rule out any possible bowel cancer. Given these circumstances, how concerned should I be? Thank you for your input.
Understanding Possible Seizure Triggers and Recurrence Risks
Health Background: I am a 21-year-old female, standing at 169 cm and weighing 65 kg. Over the past three years, I have been using oral contraceptives. As of this morning, I started taking 25 mcg of levothyroxine along with a weekly vitamin D supplement of 0.266 mg. Recently, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and found to have a vitamin D deficiency that I suspect has existed for the last three years. I do not consume alcohol or smoke, and I can confirm I am not pregnant. Two years ago, I experienced a mild concussion. I currently reside in Spain. A couple of months back, in mid-December, I blacked out twice. The second occurrence took place while I was at the doctor’s office after seeking urgent medical care for the initial incident. Following the second episode, I underwent a CT scan and an EKG, both of which returned normal results. Further tests, as directed by my physician, revealed a critical vitamin D deficiency and hypothyroidism; however, he expressed doubt that either of these conditions led to my loss of consciousness. I was then referred to a neurologist, and I am presently awaiting an appointment. Although the waiting period is lengthy, my doctor indicated that I should receive priority for scheduling, although the exact timeframe remains uncertain. The referral document summarized my events, labeling the second episode (which the physician witnessed) as a potential seizure devoid of tonic-clonic movements—a revelation that took me by surprise. After regaining consciousness, I felt extremely disoriented and terrified, struggling to process what was happening. I have no prior history of seizures, epilepsy, or any related conditions, and there is no known family history of these issues. If this indeed was a seizure, what might have triggered it? Additionally, what is the likelihood of experiencing another one? Since that time, I have not had any further incidents, but I have experienced moments where I felt a sense of impending doom, which I managed to overcome. I intend to wait for the neurologist's evaluation, but the uncertainty surrounding a possible neurological condition is quite distressing. Thank you for any insight you can provide!
Persistent Pain in Right Shoulder and Arm After Lifting
Hello, everyone! I’m a 23-year-old male and have been engaged in weightlifting for several years now. Recently, I’ve been struggling with ongoing discomfort in my right shoulder and arm, which I haven’t been able to accurately identify. The pain manifests during particular movements, especially with lateral raises or when my arm is raised to shoulder level while rotating my wrist. Certain pressing and pulling activities can also provoke this discomfort. Rather than feeling sharp, it’s a deep, nagging sensation that sometimes seems localized in the front area of the shoulder or at the biceps tendon, and at other times it feels more like it’s situated between the shoulder and upper arm. Fortunately, there’s no numbness or tingling involved. This issue began while I was working out. I decided to take a break for around two months, but when I returned, the pain persisted. After consulting a physician, I was diagnosed with bicipital tendinitis. Since then, I’ve reduced my upper-body workouts, completely steering clear of shoulder exercises and heavy lifting, and have begun a gentle rehabilitation regimen focusing on external rotations, pendulum movements, and scapular exercises. Despite adhering to this routine for about a week, I haven’t experienced any noticeable improvement. Is it typical for this type of tendon injury to require an extended period for recovery? At what point should I consider diagnostic imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI? Additionally, are there frequent rehabilitation errors that might impede the healing process? I appreciate your insights in advance!
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and Thyroid Issues: Variability in Cardioversion Decisions
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for guidance regarding my mother’s current health situation, and I’d greatly appreciate any shared experiences or thoughts. **My mother's background:** - **Age**: 55 years - **Weight**: Recently dropped to 116 kg from 118 kg in just two days, likely due to diuretics. - **Health history**: Previously an underactive thyroid, undiagnosed and untreated, now presenting as overactive. - **Medications**: Currently taking thyroid medication and a beta-blocker (Rapiblock). **Current health status:** My mother has been hospitalized since Tuesday, experiencing **atrial fibrillation with heart rates exceeding 200** beats per minute due to her thyroid's hyperactivity. - The plan for cardioversion was initially settled on Tuesday. However, the following day, the medical team advised postponing it until her thyroid levels could be stabilized, believing that her heart rate would return to normal once her thyroid condition was managed. - Her **obesity** precludes her from undergoing a transthoracic echocardiogram, and due to her thyroid concerns, she cannot handle contrast dye (this has been a consistent issue for over four years). Therefore, the only feasible option was a **transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)**, which has yet to be performed. - She has been prescribed various medications including beta-blockers and thyroid treatments in the past. - On Friday, a doctor proposed proceeding with cardioversion; however, the attending senior physician objected. - Today (Saturday), another clinician has expressed a desire to move forward with cardioversion, having initiated a new medication, as the senior physician is unavailable. - **Communication has been unclear**, as we were notified of developments by a nurse rather than the physician in charge, causing confusion and anxiety. - Currently, only a **chest X-ray** is scheduled, and the TEE remains unaddressed. **My inquiries are as follows:** 1. Is it common for medical professionals to have varying opinions and frequently revise medication or treatment plans like cardioversion? 2. Is it safe to conduct cardioversion in the absence of a TEE? I presumed that this was a standard procedure to exclude the presence of blood clots. 3. Is it usual practice to have only a chest X-ray prior to moving ahead with cardioversion? 4. How typical is it for patients or their families to not be directly informed about treatment changes and learn about them through nursing staff instead? I recognize that this cannot substitute for professional medical advice. I’m simply trying to discern whether these circumstances are typical or if we should express our concerns more assertively with the healthcare facility. Thank you for your insights!
Concerns About My Toes
Age: 30, Female Currently, I am on the lookout for a reputable podiatrist in my vicinity. However, I've encountered a perplexing issue with my foot. Just last night, I noticed a growth on the side of my toe, something entirely new to me. I maintain a nutritious diet and have a demanding job that requires me to be on my feet quite often. My footwear includes brands such as Brooks Ghost Runners, Hoka Bondi 9’s, and Nike Motiva’s, and I don’t opt for restrictive socks. I also apply Vick’s Vaporub to my feet, a practice handed down from my family, and stick with simple, non-fragrant lotions like Vanicream and CeraVe SA Cream for my skin. In addition, I am curious about the my big toenail's change in color. What might be the underlying reasons for this? Also, I have these persistent dark spots on my toes that I've struggled with since my days on the runway. Despite my efforts, nothing has succeeded in lightening or diminishing their appearance. I'm just looking to determine if there might have been a factor from the past that could have contributed to these issues. I’m not sure what else to include, but I’m open to answering any questions you might have. Thank you for your attention! Best wishes from a worried soul!