Persistent Lymph Nodes and a Recent Lump Following Dental Pain – 14-Year-Old Reports
I'm 14 years old and have been noticing two lymph nodes located on the right side of my jaw and cheek for the past one to two years. One of these nodes is roughly the size of a boba pearl, while the other is smaller than a pea. They first emerged during an illness, which I suspect may have been related to COVID-19. Both lymph nodes are movable, not hard to touch, and were tender initially; however, they lost their painful sensation after a few days. Although they remain, they typically swell slightly during allergy seasons before returning to their usual size. About three weeks ago, I experienced discomfort in one of my upper right molars. To alleviate the pain, I found myself pressing on the right side of my neck frequently. Shortly after the toothache began—approximately three days later—I discovered a new small bump under my chin. At first, this lump was tender, but it has since become painless. It measures about twice the size of a grain of rice and feels fixed or attached to the surrounding tissue, quite different from the older lymph nodes that can move freely. This newly found lump has stayed the same in size, showing no fluctuations, and it has persisted since its appearance. I am pleased to report that I have not experienced any other health issues. I have not felt fatigued, nor have I had a fever, lost weight, experienced night sweats, or observed any additional lumps.
Answers (1)
7/26/2025, 2:01:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're being proactive about your health. The persistent lymph nodes you've noticed could be related to previous infections, such as the one you suspect was from COVID-19, or perhaps allergies. The recent lump under your chin, particularly after experiencing discomfort with your molar, might indicate inflammation related to your dental issue. Here’s a clearer breakdown:
Main Points
- The two lymph nodes you’ve had for some time are likely reactive and associated with past infections or allergies.
- The new lump under your chin, which is fixed and has remained stable, is worth monitoring closely, especially after your recent dental discomfort.
Explanation
Lymph nodes can become enlarged when your body is fighting off infections or as a response to allergies. The fact that the older lymph nodes are movable and were tender initially suggests they were reacting to something. It's common for lymph nodes to swell during allergic reactions as well.
The newer lump under your chin is different, especially as it feels fixed and has not changed in size. Fixed lumps require closer attention since they may not respond in the same way as reactive lymph nodes, especially in the context of a recent dental issue.
Next Steps
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Monitor Changes: Keep track of your symptoms. Note any changes in size, tenderness, or mobility of the new lump and any other lymph nodes. If you notice any significant changes, this will be important information for a healthcare provider.
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Oral Care: Since you mentioned discomfort related to a molar, ensure you’re practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and considering saltwater rinses to reduce any inflammation or discomfort.
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Symptom Diary: Document your symptoms over the next couple of weeks, noting any changes in the lump or lymph nodes, as well as any new symptoms that might arise (e.g., fever, weight loss).
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Seek Attention: Although you haven't experienced significant symptoms of concern, if the lump remains unchanged or if you develop new symptoms, seeking advice from a healthcare professional would be prudent. They can evaluate the lump and take any necessary steps.
It's excellent that you're attentive to your health, and addressing these concerns sooner rather than later can often lead to peace of mind. If you have any further questions or if things change, feel free to reach out.
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