Concerns About Swollen Lymph Nodes and Hand Bumps
At 16 years old and weighing around 160 pounds, I currently stand 5'10" tall. I am not on any prescribed medications, but I do engage in recreational activities such as smoking nicotine and marijuana. My eating habits are quite inconsistent, as I only tend to eat when I feel hungry. Initially, I weighed 165 pounds last June and aimed to shed some pounds due to spending excessive time indoors, which led to weight gain. Recently, I've started to adopt a more active lifestyle by going out more frequently, which I believe contributes positively to my health. Previously, I did not smoke, but after June, I began using nicotine and tried marijuana for the first time last October. I've also started to notice some concerning symptoms, including trembling in my hands and excessive sweating. My doctor has informed me that I have an underactive thyroid or some related issue with my thyroid function. Currently, I am worried about a swollen lymph node in my pelvic area and some unexplained bumps on my hand. Any insights or advice regarding these issues would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
7/15/2025, 6:01:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your symptoms, especially with the combination of swollen lymph nodes, hand bumps, trembling, and excessive sweating. These signs can stem from various conditions, and it's great that you're being proactive about your health.
Explanation
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Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes can swell for several reasons, including infections (bacterial or viral), inflammation, or other conditions. A swollen lymph node in the pelvic area may signal that your body is responding to an infection or inflammation nearby.
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Hand Bumps: These could be caused by a variety of factors, including skin conditions, cysts, or even reactions to substances.
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Thyroid Function: An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can contribute to symptoms such as excessive sweating and perhaps even trembling. Thyroid issues can also impact metabolism and energy levels, which is key at your age.
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Lifestyle Factors: Smoking nicotine and marijuana can affect your body's response systems and overall health, including your thyroid function.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of how the swollen lymph node and hand bumps change over time, noting any new symptoms like fever, changes in size, or if they become painful.
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Stay Active: Continue with your more active lifestyle; exercise can improve circulation and overall health.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Focus on drinking plenty of water and aim for balanced meals when you feel hungry. Consistency in eating can help regulate your body, including thyroid function.
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Limit Substance Use: Consider reducing or refraining from smoking, as nicotine and marijuana can potentially complicate your symptoms and overall thyroid health.
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Prioritize Thyroid Management: It may be beneficial to discuss with your doctor how to manage your thyroid condition effectively. This might include regular check-ups and checking your thyroid hormone levels.
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Seek Further Evaluation: It’s important to bring up your concerns about the swollen lymph nodes and hand bumps with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, as they might recommend further tests or treatments based on what they find.
Remember to be attentive to your health and to reach out for care when necessary. You're taking a positive step by seeking advice, and taking care of your body is always worthwhile.
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