[17M] Persistent Neck Lump: Doctors Dismissed It Two Years Ago but Issues Persist
Approximately two years ago, I unexpectedly developed a rather large lump in my neck. I consulted a physician who performed some blood work, but no abnormalities were detected. He prescribed antibiotics, which were ineffective. Another round of tests later revealed the presence of a virus, specifically Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Oddly enough, my doctor suggested that I simply wait it out. A few months later, while the lump had reduced in size, it remained present. Upon examination, my doctor reassured me that it felt normal and advised me not to worry. Interestingly, when I first sought medical attention, my doctor did not conduct an EBV test because he claimed that since the lump had been there for some time, if it were EBV, I would have shown signs of recovery by then (I had visited him 1-2 weeks after the lump appeared). It was only in the follow-up test that they checked for EBV and confirmed its existence. Since the lump's onset, I've experienced recurring symptoms approximately every three to four months. Initially, it starts with a mild itch in my throat, which the following day escalates to a painful soreness that makes speaking difficult, accompanied by a rough sensation in the roof of my mouth. By the third and fourth days, I may have a slight cold, but the sore throat typically subsides, and I return to normal. This cycle has repeated itself around six or seven times, and each occurrence seems to correlate with a resurgence of the lump, decreasing my neck's range of motion—while not severely limiting, it is bothersome. About six months ago, after realizing this pattern, I visited another doctor. Blood tests indicated slightly low iron levels, as well as elevated sugar and creatinine. He didn't provide much explanation, simply advising me to be more mindful of my diet and stating that overall, my health seemed acceptable. I now feel hesitant to return to the doctor, despite his previous reassurances that everything is fine. What course of action should I take? This ongoing situation is becoming increasingly frustrating. Thanks for any advice!
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 12:31:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent lump in your neck and the accompanying symptoms you've been experiencing. It's completely understandable to feel frustrated after multiple consultations without a clear resolution. The recurrence of your symptoms, along with the lump, shows that this is an important issue that warrants further attention.
Summary of Key Points:
- Persistent Lump & Symptoms: You've had a long-standing neck lump associated with recurrent throat discomfort.
- Previous Medical Opinions: While your doctors have indicated that everything appears normal, your symptoms keep occurring, leading to ongoing concern.
Explanation:
The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) can lead to symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes (which could explain the lump you feel). It may also be related to ongoing throat discomfort. Although many people recover from EBV-related infections without issues, the recurrence of your throat symptoms and the lump suggests that there may still be an underlying concern.
Your previous blood results showing low iron and elevated sugar and creatinine levels are also important, as they can indicate issues with nutrition or metabolism that deserve further evaluation.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Keep a Detailed Symptom Diary: Track when your symptoms occur, how long they last, and any other associated factors (like diet, stress levels, etc.). This will provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.
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Consider Follow-Up Testing:
- **Lymph Node Evaluation: **Ask for an ultrasound of the lymph node/lump if it continues to persist and especially if its size changes.
- Throat Evaluation: A referral to an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist) could be beneficial, especially to assess the throat symptoms you've been experiencing.
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Nutritional Assessment: Given the low iron, consider revisiting your diet. Focus on iron-rich foods (like spinach, beans, and red meat) and ensure proper hydration and balanced nutrition to support overall health.
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Health Monitoring: Stay aware of any new symptoms or changes in your health status, such as difficulty swallowing, changes in your voice, or persistent fever.
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Reassess Healthcare Provider: If you're uncomfortable returning to your current doctor, consider seeking a third opinion from another physician or a specialist who can take a fresh look at your medical history and current symptoms.
Final Thoughts:
It’s important to advocate for your health and express your concerns clearly during medical appointments. You deserve to have your symptoms taken seriously and to explore potential solutions. Don't hesitate to reach out for the support you need—your health is a priority.
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