Painful lymph node in one side of the neck

Hi, I have come here in the hope that someone out there might be going through or have gone through the same experience I am in. I am a 37-year woman, married no kids.

In 2019, following a trip to Morocco, I got severely ill with gastroenteritis, nearly starting to damage my kidneys when I was taken to hospital. Stayed for 2 weeks and recovered. Since then I have been sick on and off and have been put on nearly 6 courses of antibiotics. The last being in February 2020, as I got a chest infection following a flue. I noticed my symptoms getting better however a lump or a swollen feeling on my neck. Bloods came normal but the ultrasound detected a lump in the left side of my neck (front). MRI suggested biopsy that came benign. However, Dr. suggested it to be repeated after a few months. Since Feb 2020 till now, I have a severe pain that comes and goes with the swollen node. The pain goes all the way to my left ear and recently to the top of my head. I feel like something is stabbing in my skull. + My teeth left side are painful. Similar to a tooth/earache.

Have been moved from one doctor to another, the chest is cleared, CT is clear and the dentist checked my teeth to confirm there was nothing wrong with it. I am in pain and doctors are unable to diagnose my condition to give treatment. I was put on steroids but they did not work either. 

I have another ultrasound scan and blood to test thyroid mid of Jan (it was a planned wait and see test).

Really appreciate if someone can help. I am concerned I might have a tumour of some kind. Or unsure if this is something that will heal eventually. Thank you so much

Also, I forgot to mention that my left arm has now starting to feel numb sometimes and feels tingly. 

  • Hi there,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm sorry to read of the issues you're going through at the moment with this - I'm sure it must be a little worrying and confusing.

    It's good to hear you have some repeats tests coming up. Hopefully these will help to provide an answer - as well as an opportunity to further discuss things with your doctor. I'd suggest making notes of any questions or concerns you have so that you can get all the answers you need. It is of course important that you get answers and peace of mind with this.

    I hope you're able to find out more soon.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator