Concerns Regarding Swollen Lymph Nodes
I am a 22-year-old female managing generalized epilepsy along with some mental health challenges. Currently, my medication regimen includes doxycycline at 6mg for sleep, lacosamide 100mg taken twice daily, atomoxetine 40mg also twice a day, and duloxetine at 90mg. Additionally, I'm on a 90-day birth control pill containing both estrogen and progesterone. At present, I'm in recovery from a cold that intensified into a sinus infection, and this illness has persisted for nearly four weeks. I am currently on the eighth day of a course of antibiotics, specifically amoxicillin, which my doctor prescribed. As of now, my symptoms have mostly subsided, leaving me with slight congestion, a rare productive cough, and some discomfort in my throat, localized only to the left side. However, I noticed upon waking this morning that my lymph nodes on the left side of my neck are noticeably swollen, extending down to just beneath my jawline. This development has left me uncertain about whether it warrants a visit to a healthcare professional. I would appreciate your thoughts on whether it's likely that I'll need an extended course of antibiotics to address this issue. Thank you for your guidance!
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 10:20:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about swollen lymph nodes, especially given your recent cold and sinus infection. Swelling in the lymph nodes can occur when your body is fighting off an infection, and this may still be a continuation of your recent illness rather than a new issue.
Lymph nodes often become enlarged due to inflammation from infections, especially respiratory ones like sinusitis. The fact that you are on antibiotics suggests that your doctor is addressing a potential bacterial infection, and although your symptoms are improving, it’s not uncommon for lymph nodes to remain swollen for some time even after the infection is resolving.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your swelling lymph nodes. If they remain swollen for more than a couple of weeks, or if they begin to grow larger, you should reconsider seeking medical advice.
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Pain Management: If you experience discomfort from the swollen lymph nodes, you can manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), following the recommended dosages.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Continue to hydrate and ensure you get enough rest. This supports your immune system as it recovers.
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Observe for Other Symptoms: If you develop any new symptoms such as a fever, increased coughing, difficulty swallowing, or if the swelling becomes painful or hard, these could be signs that require further investigation.
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Follow Up: Given the context of your medications and the duration of your recent cold, it’s prudent to check in with your healthcare provider if there is no improvement in the swelling over the next week or if you have any concerns.
It's great that you're proactive about your health, and your focus on monitoring symptoms will be important in deciding if further medical evaluation is necessary.
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