Concerns About a Persistent Lump and Shoulder Discomfort
Hello, everyone! I'm a 19-year-old female, standing at 5'1" and weighing 57 kg. Back in November of last year, I visited my physician regarding a firm lump located at the back of my neck, which has limited mobility. After an ultrasound examination, the doctor informed me it was a significantly enlarged lymph node. However, she did identify an issue related to my thyroid, though I can’t recall the specific term. I was advised to return for a follow-up in a year if the lump persisted. Fast forward to a few months ago, I checked again and confirmed the lump remains. It seems to be approximately the same size, though I’m uncertain if there's been any growth. I’ve seen my doctor about it twice already and underwent blood tests to assess my thyroid function, which returned normal results. Recently, I returned to the clinic because I've experienced daily pain in my left shoulder for about a month. This discomfort subsided for a bit, but now I've started to feel sharp pains in my right shoulder, which radiation to my armpit, sometimes affecting my right side of the back and extending down my right arm. This results in sudden pain in my upper arm, elbow, and forearm, with occasional numbness and tingling in my fingers. I initially sought medical advice out of concern that the lump and shoulder pain could be interrelated, especially since some types of cancer are known to cause shoulder discomfort. However, my doctors have dismissed my worries, stating that certain lymph nodes can remain enlarged or more prominent, and that my shoulder pain is likely due to poor posture. I’m left wondering if I should continue to push for further investigation or if I should let it go. The anxiety surrounding this situation is quite overwhelming. Thank you to anyone who took the time to read this!
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 11:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious about the lump in your neck and the shoulder discomfort. You are already taking steps to address these issues, which is great. Here’s a breakdown of your situation and some next steps to consider.
Main Points
- The enlarged lymph node may not necessarily indicate a serious issue, especially if you’ve had normal blood tests and no other concerning signs.
- The shoulder pain you describe could relate to posture or strain, but the radiation of pain to your arm and tingling in your fingers should be carefully considered.
Explanation
An enlarged lymph node can persist for a variety of reasons, including infections or chronic inflammation, and can sometimes remain enlarged for a long time without any significant health risk. Your normal thyroid function is reassuring, but it’s important to continue monitoring your symptoms.
Regarding your shoulder pain, it sounds like it could be related to musculoskeletal issues, possibly linked to posture or muscle strain. However, the sharp pain radiating down your arm and accompanied by numbness can indicate nerve involvement, which should be evaluated further.
Next Steps
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Symptom Diary: Keep a log of your symptoms, noting the intensity of the pain, any activities that exacerbate it, and any additional symptoms you may experience (such as changes in posture, physical activity, or stress levels). This will help you track any patterns or changes over time.
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Postural Adjustments: Focus on improving your posture. Consider exercises that strengthen your back and shoulder muscles, stretches for tight areas, and ergonomic adjustments during activities like working at a desk.
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Physical Therapy: If the shoulder pain persists, you might benefit from consulting with a physical therapist. They can provide tailored exercises and strategies to help relieve your pain and prevent recurrence.
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Further Investigations: Given the persistent symptoms, don't hesitate to discuss the possibility of additional tests with your doctor, such as imaging studies (like an MRI or X-ray) to rule out any underlying issues with your shoulder or nerves, especially if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
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Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss your ongoing concerns about both the lump and the shoulder pain. A second opinion or referral to a specialist, such as an orthopedist or neurologist, might provide additional insights and peace of mind.
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about health concerns. Trust your instincts and advocate for your health as needed. You are taking the right steps by seeking answers and being proactive about your well-being. Reach out if you need more advice or reassurance!
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