Should I Be Worried About These Symptoms?
I frequently use Q-tips to clean my nostrils due to my septum piercing, and I’ve noticed a brownish-black substance in my left nostril, while my right nostril produces thick, clear mucus. It’s a bit embarrassing, but I suffer from chronic mucus, which has darkened over time, along with post-nasal drip that’s led to persistent bad breath. Additionally, I deal with a dry mouth, and my tongue often appears coated in a brown and white film. Inside my mouth, I have sores and red spots, and my skin peels, problems that seem to linger without resolution. Swallowing food can be difficult, occasionally requiring me to cough up what I’ve eaten because it feels stuck. My throat makes gurgling sounds, and I constantly have the sensation that something is lodged in there. Recently, my voice has taken on a raspier tone, and I’ve noticed tenderness and swelling around my lymph node on the right side of my throat. At 23 years old, standing 6’4” and weighing 130 pounds, I’m struggling with unintentional weight loss. No matter what dietary approach I adopt or how much I consume, gaining weight remains elusive. I smoke approximately 12-15 cigarettes daily. I’m uncertain whether my symptoms are alarming or merely a consequence of my smoking habit. With a $3,600 health insurance deductible that has just reset, visiting a doctor is currently beyond my financial reach, which is why I decided to seek advice here. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I apologize for the lengthy message.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 7:40:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling concerned about the number and severity of your symptoms. Many of the issues you're experiencing, such as the brownish-black substance in your nostril, chronic mucus production, mouth sores, and weight loss, can potentially be linked to several underlying health factors, including your smoking habits. Here’s a structured look at what you’re experiencing and some prioritized steps you can take.
Summary of Symptoms
- Nasal Symptoms: Brownish-black substance in one nostril, thick clear mucus, post-nasal drip.
- Oral Symptoms: Coated tongue, mouth sores, red spots, peeling skin.
- Throat Symptoms: Difficulty swallowing, gurgling sounds, tender lymph node, raspier voice.
- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss despite dietary efforts.
- Lifestyle Factor: Smoking 12-15 cigarettes daily.
Explanation
Your symptoms suggest several possible issues. Smoking can lead to chronic irritation in your respiratory and oral systems, causing problems such as chronic mucus, bad breath, and oral lesions. The presence of a brownish-black substance may indicate pigmentation from smoking or potential bacterial or fungal infections. The tenderness around your lymph nodes and weight loss warrant concern, especially at your age and height, as they can indicate an underlying health issue.
Next Steps
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Improve Oral and Throat Hygiene:
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater several times a day to help soothe mouth sores.
- Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle mouthwash to keep your oral health in check.
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Consider Smoking Cessation:
- Reducing or eliminating smoking can significantly improve your overall health and may alleviate many of your symptoms. Look for resources or apps that support smoking cessation.
-
Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Staying well-hydrated can help thin mucus and relieve dryness in your mouth and throat.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a daily diary of your symptoms to track changes. Note the severity and any patterns you observe. This will be valuable if you can seek medical help in the future.
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Consider Dietary Adjustments:
- Focus on high-calorie foods that are easier to swallow, such as smoothies, yogurt, and avocados, to manage weight loss. Add nut butters, protein shakes, and soft foods to your diet.
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Seek Medical Assistance When Possible:
- Although visiting a doctor may feel financially daunting, prioritize finding a healthcare provider with a sliding scale or low-cost services, especially given your range of symptoms and persistent weight loss.
Your symptoms indicate the need for medical evaluation, especially for the unintended weight loss and the swelling of your lymph nodes. Addressing these concerns promptly is important for your health. Take care of yourself, and if you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out.
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