Seeking Advice on Persistent Jaw Swelling
Hello everyone, I’m a 36-year-old woman, generally in good health without significant medical complications in the past. However, for the last four weeks, I've been experiencing painless swelling on both sides of my jaw, specifically in the submandibular area, and it hasn’t diminished at all. Alongside this issue, I've observed: * Occasional mild night sweats (I’m not soaked, but my shirt tends to be damp several nights) * Ongoing fatigue that seems unrelenting * Unintentional weight loss of approximately 3 kg over the last three months * I haven’t had any recent infections or other symptoms that come to mind I recently underwent a neck ultrasound, and although the report indicated that the glands appear normal with only one small lymph node mentioned, the ultrasound images show multiple enlarged, round structures that appear hypoechoic on both sides. Some of these structures measure over 3 to 4 cm, and a few demonstrate increased blood flow on Doppler imaging as well. This discrepancy between the report and the actual images has me concerned, and I’m uncertain whether I should seek a second opinion or consider a biopsy. I would greatly appreciate input from anyone knowledgeable in radiology or ENT who could examine the ultrasound images and help me determine if my concerns are valid or if I might be overreacting. I'm open to sharing the images via direct message or link if that’s permissible. Thank you very much for your assistance!
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 6:02:25 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about persistent jaw swelling, especially when accompanied by symptoms like night sweats, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss. These can indicate an underlying condition that may require attention.
Explanation
The swelling on both sides of your jaw could be related to a few different factors, including lymph nodes reacting to an issue in the body (even if there's no overt infection), inflammation, or other causes. The presence of enlarged round structures on your ultrasound, especially with increased blood flow, is particularly noteworthy and can sometimes indicate a need for further investigation.
Next Steps
Here are prioritized actions to consider:
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Second Opinion: Given the discrepancy between your ultrasound findings and the report, seeking a second opinion from another radiologist or an ENT specialist can provide clarity. They may assess the images directly and offer insights tailored to this situation.
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Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of night sweats and fatigue, as well as any changes in weight. This information can be vital for any healthcare provider you consult.
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Consider Further Testing: Depending on the assessment from a second opinion, your provider may recommend further tests, such as blood tests to check for infections, autoimmune diseases, or other conditions that could explain your symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated and Rested: Ensure you’re staying hydrated and getting adequate rest, particularly considering your fatigue. Gentle exercises, like walking, may also help you feel better overall.
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Avoid Self-Diagnosis: It’s natural to research your symptoms, but try to avoid jumping to conclusions. Rely on healthcare professionals to interpret tests and advise on the next steps.
Please prioritize these actions and remember that seeking help is a positive step toward getting the answers you need. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out!
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