Ultrasound Findings on Lymph Nodes - Seeking Guidance
I am a 39-year-old male, weighing 112 kg and standing at 173 cm tall. Over the past month, I've been experiencing an unusual feeling on the surface of my tongue, accompanied by a burning and tingling sensation. Initially, I consulted my general practitioner, who suggested that it might be an early sign of a cold or an infection. This sensation subsided temporarily for a couple of days but then returned multiple times, resulting in a frustrating cycle of symptoms. During this period, I also discovered a lymph node in my armpit, followed by another in my neck. I underwent an ultrasound to assess these areas, and it has been about 2-3 weeks since then without any notable growth in these lymph nodes. Although my physician isn't extremely concerned, he has recommended a chest CT scan after finding a small 3mm lung nodule previously. Here are the findings from the ultrasound: **Axillary Region:** "Several prominent bilateral axillary nodes are observed with maintained hilar patterns and heightened vascularity, the largest measuring 17 x 10 mm on the left side, suggesting a reactive nature. A follow-up assessment is advised." **Neck and Thyroid Area:** "A prominent lymph node is noted in the right posterior triangle, measuring 8 x 3 mm. No other focal abnormalities are present in the area of concern." This morning, I noticed the emergence of another lymph node near my Adam's apple, heightening my fears about the possibility of lymphoma. However, my doctor reassures me that the results are leaning towards a positive interpretation. I would appreciate any insights or thoughts regarding these ultrasound findings and my situation.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 6:10:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been navigating a challenging situation with your symptoms and the ultrasound findings. Let’s summarize the key points and then explore what they mean for you, as well as the next steps you can take.
Main Points Summary:
- You've experienced a burning and tingling sensation on your tongue and discovered enlarged lymph nodes.
- Your ultrasound findings suggest that the lymph nodes are reactive, which is often a benign response to various stimuli, including infections.
- Your doctor has suggested a follow-up approach with a chest CT scan due to a small lung nodule.
Explanation:
The sensations you’re feeling on your tongue could be linked to various benign causes, such as irritation, allergies, or a reaction to an upper respiratory infection. The presence of lymph nodes that are reactive often indicates that your body is responding to an infection, inflammation, or even stress. While your concern about lymphoma is understandable, the ultrasound descriptions note maintained hilar patterns (which usually indicates that the nodes are normal in terms of their structure) and suggest that they’re likely reactive rather than malignant.
The fact that the lymph nodes are not growing larger over several weeks is a promising sign. Nevertheless, the emergence of a new lymph node may warrant closer observation, especially if you notice any changes in size, consistency, or if you have accompanying systemic symptoms like fever or night sweats.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on any changes in your lymph nodes or new symptoms. Take note of any swelling, pain, or systemic symptoms (like fever, weight loss, or night sweats) that may arise.
-
Follow-Up with Your Doctor: Discuss your concerns about the newly found lymph node near your Adam's apple with your doctor. It may be helpful to address any lingering worries and explore possible explanations for these changes.
-
Prepare for the CT Scan: Get ready for the upcoming chest CT scan, as it will provide further insights into the lung nodule and help your doctor make an informed decision on any necessary follow-up.
-
Supportive Care: To manage the discomfort in your tongue, consider drinking plenty of water and avoiding irritants such as spicy or acidic foods. Using a mild mouthwash or sugarless lozenges may also help alleviate irritation.
-
Stay Informed but Calm: It’s natural to worry, but try to focus on the professional reassurances you've received so far. Consider discussing any education materials or resources your doctor might recommend regarding lymph nodes and associated conditions.
If you ever feel uncertain or your symptoms worsen, don't hesitate to reach back out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. It's important to maintain open communication regarding your health concerns. Let me know if you would like more assistance or information!
Related Questions
Seeking Insights on Lab Results
Greetings, I am a 34-year-old woman recently diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia. My primary care physician mentioned that she wouldn't reevaluate my B12 levels— which have been persistently low—until I consult a specialist. Unfortunately, that appointment has been delayed significantly, so I have started supplementing with B12. Currently, I am experiencing numbness in my extremities and episodic dizziness that sometimes leads to brief blackouts lasting over 10 seconds. For the past four months, I have also been struggling with severe cystic acne that appears along my jawline. Just when I think I've managed to control it, I wake up to discover a fresh pimple. Last year, I underwent a bilateral salpingectomy; I have never been pregnant nor given birth. During my consultations prior to the surgery, my gynecologist identified pelvic adhesions and removed them. Despite that, I continue to endure pain in my right ovary, persistent acne, and have regular menstrual cycles, but with erratic blood flow and hot flashes. As a next step, my primary care provider ordered tests to evaluate my hormone levels. However, I received a call from her assistant informing me that "everything is normal" according to the lab results. This leaves me feeling uncertain; it seems either too superficial an assessment was made or my issues are being overlooked. I apologize if my concerns sound trivial, but I am seeking a second opinion. How can my lab results indicate normal levels while I am experiencing these significant symptoms? Could it be that I’m overreacting? I appreciate your help immensely. My initial four tests were flagged, and I was informed that LabCorp had no clear data regarding either regular or abnormal hormone levels. Thank you once again for your understanding. Here are my lab results for reference: - MCV: High at 103 - MCH: Moderately high at 33.2 - BUN: Low at 5 - BUN/Creatinine Ratio: Low at 6 - LH: 11.3 - FSH: 11.1 - Testosterone: 32 - Free Testosterone: 2.8 - Estradiol: 61.6 - TSH: 2.430
Understanding Facial Swelling Post-RAI Treatment
At 42 years old and having been diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer, I underwent a complete thyroidectomy in December, followed by treatment with Radioactive Iodine (RAI) in March. Recently, I felt mild discomfort on the left side of my face, and upon waking up, I noticed it was quite painful and noticeably swollen. I am aware that experiencing such symptoms can occur up to a year after receiving RAI, but how can I determine whether this facial swelling is indeed a side effect of the RAI or if it may be attributed to another issue? Should I consult a healthcare professional for a thorough assessment, or can I assume that this is a typical reaction to RAI that will resolve on its own?
Navigating Family Tensions and Personal Health Struggles
I'm a 30-year-old nonbinary individual, standing at 5'2" and weighing about 100 pounds. I deal with asthma, low ferritin levels, and a tethered spinal cord, and I previously experienced POTS in my younger years. Recently, I've been grappling with jaw issues that have made it excruciatingly painful to open my mouth, forcing me to rely on smoothie deliveries. My health symptoms include shortness of breath, numbness in my fingers and toes, confusion, clumsiness, and excessive sleep—roughly 14 hours a day. Along with these, I've started experiencing chest pain that feels unbearable, as if an elephant is pressing down just on my left side. Any attempt to move or lie down flat intensifies the discomfort, and my use of home oxygen doesn't seem to alleviate the situation. Additionally, I'm experiencing intermittent shaking without any clear reason, and although I've used my rescue inhaler several times, it hasn't provided relief. In August, I secured an appointment with a GI specialist who can refer me to a hematologist and conduct blood tests. I had intended to wait for that appointment. However, after experiencing worsening shortness of breath and severe chest pain last night—so intense it disrupted my sleep and caused me to wake up screaming—I feel I cannot wait any longer. My pain escalates when I move around or when I stop using my home oxygen. When I shared this troubling development with my mother and my patient advocate, who is a close friend of my mom, they seemed remarkably upset with me. Their responses were dismissive, attributing my symptoms to common dysautonomia flare-ups and reminding me of my history with asthma flares tied to my menstrual cycle. They implied that my situation could have been avoided had I used IV fluids, and they insisted that I must appear calm to receive treatment for my chest pain. Instead of rushing to get medical help, they suggested mindfulness techniques, which I reluctantly tried even though it didn’t help. I’m struggling with feelings of shame, convinced that my current predicament is somehow my fault. Even though I’ve been adequately hydrating with electrolyte drinks, my anxiety about needles caused me to delay getting an IV. On top of that, constantly waking up in pain has undoubtedly affected my decision-making. They did suggest I could seek urgent care for reassurance, but the exhausting process of leaving my apartment for the clinic felt daunting. Ultimately, I did agree to receive the IV, hoping it might offer some improvement in how I feel. I plan to wait for the nurse to arrive and gauge my condition before deciding on further action. My intention is to communicate how severe my symptoms are if the IV shows no effect. Despite my embarrassment and the stress this situation brings, I find that I’ve calmed down somewhat. I’ve adopted the mindset that whatever happens is part of a larger tapestry of existence, believing that the universe holds infinite possibilities. I truly want to believe that things will turn out fine. As a physically fit 30-year-old with just low ferritin levels, the idea that I could be having a heart attack seems far-fetched—even somewhat absurd. I need assurance that this is not my fault, and I am not meant to endure chest pain as a normal part of managing mild POTS and worrying about hydration.
Head Injury at Work Today
Hello everyone, today at work I experienced a mishap where I collided with a pipe while attempting to maneuver below it. Unfortunately, I struck the top of my head with significant force. About twenty minutes later, I rode my bicycle home, and during the ride, I began to feel a sharp pain. I felt nauseous, and now, four hours post-incident, I just awakened from a lengthy nap of an hour and a half, but the discomfort persists. It feels as if there is pressure building inside my skull, and I can sense a pinpoint pain every time I move my head slightly. I am uncertain about the best course of action, especially since I have a demanding 12-hour shift ahead of me tomorrow.
Persistent Numbness in Thumb
Patient: Female, Age 33, Weight 225 pounds. Approximately two hours ago, I awoke to an unusual sensation in my thumb, characterized by tingling and numbness similar to when your leg falls asleep. Interestingly, I hadn’t experienced any strange positions while sleeping prior to waking up. The area at the base of my thumb up to the knuckle feels normal. Both the inside part of my thumb—the side adjacent to my index finger—and the base are unaffected. However, the tips' exterior section, past the knuckle, is the only area exhibiting this tingling sensation. I can distinctly separate the tip of my thumb; one half feels perfectly fine while the other half experiences numbness. Despite the time that has passed, which is now around two hours, I have tried various remedies to restore normal sensation without success. I attempted rubbing, squeezing, shaking my arm, and even massaging my elbow, in case of a pinched nerve higher up. Functionally, my thumb performs normal tasks without any issues—its appearance remains unchanged, and it retains its color. I can type, grasp objects, make a fist, and pinch with it without difficulty, indicating it works properly despite the odd sensation. Throughout my life, I have dealt with significant health anxiety (currently undergoing therapy), and this particular occurrence is heightening my concerns. What steps should I take next?