Seeking Advice on Health Concerns at 21
Hello everyone, I’m 21 years old and experiencing a lot of stress regarding my health. For over a month, I've been dealing with swollen lymph nodes located at the back of my neck, specifically in the nape and occipital area. Following a visit to my general practitioner, she recommended that I undergo some blood tests, which I completed today. The results showed that my GRAN% is low—this was also the case last year, but it appears to have decreased further. I'm genuinely frightened that this could be a sign of leukemia or another serious condition. I also consulted with an ENT specialist who reassured me that there wasn't cause for alarm because the swollen node measured under 2 cm. However, I can still feel it and it seems larger to me, plus I don't believe he thoroughly examined all of my lymph nodes. Additionally, I’ve noticed I have dandruff and a few persistent red spots on my scalp, but I'm uncertain whether these are connected to my lymph node issues. I plan to revisit my GP with these blood test results and would like to ask for an ultrasound, as my anxiety about this situation is increasing. Sometimes, I wake up to find my shirt slightly damp, resembling the feeling of clothing that’s been tucked away in a closet, despite the room being at a normal temperature. Currently, I’m located in Bulgaria and I feel uneasy about the level of thoroughness and honesty from the healthcare professionals here. I would appreciate it if anyone could look into my blood test results and give me feedback on whether they may suggest a serious health issue.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 8:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel stressed about your health, especially with symptoms like swollen lymph nodes and low granulocyte levels in your blood tests. Though these concerns can be unsettling, it's important to focus on understanding your situation and managing your anxiety effectively.
Explanation
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Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes can swell for several reasons, including infections (like viruses or bacteria), inflammation, or even reactions to hair products or dandruff. Since your swollen lymph nodes are under 2 cm and you've been reassured by a specialist, it's a positive sign. The body often reacts to local infections or irritations (like dandruff), which can cause lymph nodes to swell.
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Low Granulocyte Levels: Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell important for fighting infections. Low levels can be related to various factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or bone marrow issues. It's crucial to discuss these results in detail with your GP, especially since this is a recurring issue.
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Dampness at Night: Night sweats can be caused by infections, stress, hormonal changes, or even anxiety. Monitoring how often this occurs can help your doctor determine if there's an underlying cause that needs addressing.
Next Steps
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Revisit Your GP: Prepare to discuss your recent blood test results, particularly the low granulocyte levels. Ask about the implications and any necessary follow-up tests, including blood counts or additional evaluations. Be open about your anxiety and the damp shirts at night.
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Request an Ultrasound: Express your concern about the lymph nodes and request an ultrasound for reassurance if it's warranted by your GP. This can help visualize the lymph nodes and rule out any serious issues.
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Manage Anxiety: Acknowledge your feelings of anxiety and consider stress-relief techniques (like mindfulness, deep breathing, or light exercise) to help manage your stress levels.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your lymph nodes, the red spots on your scalp, and your night sweats. Noting patterns can provide helpful information for your healthcare provider.
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Scalp Care: For the dandruff and red spots, consider using anti-dandruff shampoo and pay attention to any potential irritants (like hair products) that could be affecting your scalp.
Remember, it's common to feel anxious about health concerns, but staying proactive and informed can help you feel more in control. You're on the right path by seeking evaluations and understanding your symptoms better. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional guidance!
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