Concerns about Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Greetings, I’m a 24-year-old female. Recently, I noticed a small swelling on the left side of my neck, situated just beneath my ear. This bump has been present for several months now, and my anxiety heightened as I read various discussions about it online. Consequently, I opted to consult with an ENT specialist, who conducted both an ultrasound and an endoscopic examination. Fortunately, the endoscopy yielded normal results. I just received the findings from my ultrasound; however, my appointment with my doctor isn't scheduled until next week. Here’s a summary of the ultrasound results: - Multiple hypoechoic lymph nodes located in the left posterior cervical and supraclavicular regions, showing increased internal vascularity. - Size of nodes: - Mid: 7.7mm x 4.8mm, 7.8mm, and 5.0mm - Lower: 10.3mm x 5.1mm - Supraclavicular: 4.3mm x 3.6mm I’m uncertain whether I should be concerned about the noted internal vascularity, especially since I've read that enlarged supraclavicular nodes can indicate more serious health issues.
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 3:11:55 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about changes in your health, especially when it involves swollen lymph nodes. The ultrasound findings indicate that you have multiple enlarged lymph nodes in specific areas of your neck. While enlarged lymph nodes can indeed raise concerns, they can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, inflammation, and in some cases, malignancies.
Explanation
Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and can swell in response to infections or other health issues. The term "hypoechoic" means these nodes are less dense than the surrounding tissue, which is common when they are swollen. Increased internal vascularity suggests that there is increased blood flow to the nodes, often related to inflammation or infection.
Next Steps
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Stay Calm: It’s normal to feel anxious, but remember that many causes of swollen lymph nodes are benign (non-cancerous). Given that your endoscopy was normal, this is a reassuring sign.
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Symptom Monitoring: Keep note of any additional symptoms you may have, such as fever, weight loss, night sweats, or persistent pain. These could provide important information for your doctor.
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Avoid Self-Diagnosis: Refrain from reading too much online, as it can often lead to unnecessary worry. Focus on what you can control.
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Prepare for Your Doctor's Appointment: Write down your questions and any symptoms to discuss at your upcoming appointment. It might help to ask specifically about the significance of the internal vascularity and discuss what follow-up tests may be needed.
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Manage Anxiety: While waiting to see your doctor, consider good stress management techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or talking to a trusted friend or family member about your worries.
While the description of your lymph nodes is concerning, it’s best to discuss the findings directly with your healthcare provider, who can interpret the results in the context of your overall health and history. You’re taking the right steps by seeking medical attention.
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