What are the glands in your throat called. How do lymph nodes function in the body. When should you be concerned about swollen lymph nodes. What are the common causes of swollen lymph nodes. How are swollen lymph nodes diagnosed and treated.

The Lymphatic System: Your Body’s Defense Network

The lymphatic system is a crucial component of your body’s immune defense mechanism. It comprises a network of organs, vessels, and lymph nodes distributed throughout your body. Lymph nodes, also known as lymph glands, play a vital role in filtering out harmful substances and fighting infections.

Where are lymph nodes typically located in the body? Common areas include:

• Neck
• Under the chin
• Armpits
• Groin

These small, bean-shaped structures contain various types of immune cells that work together to trap and neutralize potential threats before they can spread to other parts of your body.

Recognizing the Signs of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are often a sign that your body is fighting an infection or dealing with another underlying issue. How can you identify swollen lymph nodes? Look out for these symptoms:

• Tenderness and pain in the affected area
• Noticeable swelling, ranging from the size of a pea to a kidney bean or larger
• Difficulty moving the swollen nodes when applying pressure

Depending on the cause, you may also experience additional symptoms such as:

• Runny nose, sore throat, or fever (indicating an upper respiratory infection)
• General swelling of lymph nodes throughout the body (possibly signaling a systemic infection or immune disorder)
• Hard, rapidly growing nodes (potential sign of cancer or lymphoma)
• Persistent fever or night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Why do lymph nodes swell? The most frequent cause is an infection, particularly viral infections like the common cold. However, various other factors can lead to swollen lymph nodes:

Infections

• Strep throat
• Measles
• Ear infections
• Abscessed tooth
• Mononucleosis
• Skin or wound infections (e.g., cellulitis)
• HIV

Less Common Infections

• Tuberculosis
• Certain sexually transmitted infections (e.g., syphilis)
• Toxoplasmosis
• Cat scratch fever

Immune System Disorders

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Cancers

• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Metastatic cancers

In rare cases, certain medications like the anti-seizure drug phenytoin (Dilantin) or antimalarial drugs can cause lymph node swelling.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

While some cases of swollen lymph nodes resolve on their own as the underlying condition improves, there are instances where medical intervention is necessary. When should you consult a doctor about swollen lymph nodes?

• They appear without an apparent reason
• They continue to enlarge or persist for 2-4 weeks
• They feel hard, rubbery, or immovable
• They’re accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss

Is there ever a situation where swollen lymph nodes require immediate medical attention? Yes, seek urgent care if you experience difficulty swallowing or breathing alongside swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosing the Cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes

How do healthcare professionals determine the underlying cause of swollen lymph nodes? The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will assess the size, texture, and location of the swollen nodes.
2. Medical history review: This helps identify potential infections or other conditions that might be causing the swelling.
3. Blood tests: These can detect infections, immune disorders, or certain cancers.
4. Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds may be used to get a closer look at the affected areas.
5. Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of the lymph node may be removed for further analysis.

The location of swollen lymph nodes can often provide clues about the underlying cause. For example, swollen nodes in the neck might indicate an upper respiratory infection, while swollen nodes in the groin could suggest a lower body infection or sexually transmitted disease.

Treatment Options for Swollen Lymph Nodes

How are swollen lymph nodes treated? The approach depends on the underlying cause:

For Mild Cases

• Watchful waiting: Some cases resolve on their own with time.
• Warm compresses: Applying warmth to the affected area can help reduce discomfort.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: These can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

For Infections

• Antibiotics: Prescribed for bacterial infections.
• Antiviral medications: Used for certain viral infections.

For Immune Disorders

• Immunosuppressants: These medications can help manage autoimmune conditions.
• Targeted therapies: Specific treatments may be prescribed depending on the disorder.

For Cancers

• Chemotherapy: Used to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: Can be employed to shrink tumors and eliminate cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system fight cancer more effectively.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal of affected lymph nodes may be necessary.

It’s important to note that treatment should always be guided by a healthcare professional based on the specific diagnosis and individual circumstances.

Preventing Complications from Swollen Lymph Nodes

Can complications arise from untreated swollen lymph nodes? Yes, if an infection is the root cause and left untreated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections and can lead to more severe health issues if not addressed promptly.

To prevent complications, consider these steps:

• Seek medical attention if swollen lymph nodes persist or are accompanied by concerning symptoms.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan precisely.
• Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections.
• Boost your immune system through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Living with Swollen Lymph Nodes: Self-Care and Management

While waiting for swollen lymph nodes to resolve or undergoing treatment, how can you manage symptoms and promote healing?

• Rest: Allow your body time to recover and fight off infections.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush toxins from your system.
• Use warm compresses: Apply a warm, damp cloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
• Elevate the affected area: This can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: Avoid putting pressure on swollen lymph nodes.
• Maintain good hygiene: Regularly clean the skin around swollen lymph nodes to prevent secondary infections.

Remember, while these self-care measures can provide relief, they should not replace professional medical advice and treatment when necessary.

Understanding the Importance of Lymph Nodes in Overall Health

Why are lymph nodes so crucial to our health? These small structures play a vital role in our body’s defense system by:

• Filtering lymph fluid to trap harmful substances
• Hosting immune cells that fight infections
• Producing antibodies to combat specific threats
• Serving as early warning systems for infections and other health issues

By understanding the function and importance of lymph nodes, we can better appreciate the need to address swollen lymph nodes promptly and maintain overall lymphatic health.

How can you support your lymphatic system? Consider these lifestyle choices:

• Regular exercise to promote lymph flow
• Proper hydration to ensure adequate lymph fluid production
• A balanced diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods
• Stress management techniques to support overall immune function
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

By taking care of your lymphatic system, you’re investing in your body’s ability to fight off infections and maintain optimal health.

Swollen lymph nodes – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer.

Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. They function as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria and other causes of illnesses before they can infect other parts of your body. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Lymph node locations

Your lymph nodes play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Swollen lymph nodes

One of the most common places to find swollen lymph nodes is in the neck. The inset shows three swollen lymph nodes below the lower jaw.

In some cases, the passage of time and warm compresses may be all you need to treat swollen lymph nodes. If an infection causes swollen lymph nodes, treatment depends on the cause.

Products & Services

Symptoms

Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area.

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice:

• Tenderness and pain in the lymph nodes
• Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodes

Depending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:

• Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection
• General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body. When this occurs, it may indicate an infection, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or mononucleosis, or an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Hard, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, indicating a possible cancer or lymphoma
• Fever
• Night sweats

When to see a doctor

Some swollen lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying condition, such as a minor infection, gets better. See your doctor if you’re concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes:

• Have appeared for no apparent reason
• Continue to enlarge or have been present for two to four weeks
• Feel hard or rubbery, or don’t move when you push on them
• Are accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss

Seek immediate medical care if you’re having difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Causes

Lymph nodes are small, round or bean-shaped clusters of cells. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause.

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly a viral infection, such as the common cold. Other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes include:

Common infections

• Strep throat
• Measles
• Ear infections
• Infected (abscessed) tooth
• Mononucleosis
• Skin or wound infections, such as cellulitis
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) — the virus that causes AIDS

Uncommon infections

• Tuberculosis
• Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis
• Toxoplasmosis — a parasitic infection resulting from contact with the feces of an infected cat or eating undercooked meat
• Cat scratch fever — a bacterial infection from a cat scratch or bite

Immune system disorders

• Lupus — a chronic inflammatory disease that targets your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and lungs
• Rheumatoid arthritis — a chronic inflammatory disease targeting the tissue that lines your joints (synovium)

Cancers

• Lymphoma — cancer that originates in your lymphatic system
• Leukemia — cancer of your body’s blood-forming tissue, including your bone marrow and lymphatic system
• Other cancers that have spread (metastasized) to lymph nodes

Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin (Dilantin) and preventive medications for malaria.

Complications

If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn’t treated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

Swollen lymph nodes – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer.

Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. They function as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria and other causes of illnesses before they can infect other parts of your body. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Lymph node locations

Your lymph nodes play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Swollen lymph nodes

One of the most common places to find swollen lymph nodes is in the neck. The inset shows three swollen lymph nodes below the lower jaw.

In some cases, the passage of time and warm compresses may be all you need to treat swollen lymph nodes. If an infection causes swollen lymph nodes, treatment depends on the cause.

Products & Services

Symptoms

Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area.

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice:

• Tenderness and pain in the lymph nodes
• Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodes

Depending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:

• Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection
• General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body. When this occurs, it may indicate an infection, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or mononucleosis, or an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Hard, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, indicating a possible cancer or lymphoma
• Fever
• Night sweats

When to see a doctor

Some swollen lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying condition, such as a minor infection, gets better. See your doctor if you’re concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes:

• Have appeared for no apparent reason
• Continue to enlarge or have been present for two to four weeks
• Feel hard or rubbery, or don’t move when you push on them
• Are accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss

Seek immediate medical care if you’re having difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Causes

Lymph nodes are small, round or bean-shaped clusters of cells. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause.

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly a viral infection, such as the common cold. Other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes include:

Common infections

• Strep throat
• Measles
• Ear infections
• Infected (abscessed) tooth
• Mononucleosis
• Skin or wound infections, such as cellulitis
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) — the virus that causes AIDS

Uncommon infections

• Tuberculosis
• Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis
• Toxoplasmosis — a parasitic infection resulting from contact with the feces of an infected cat or eating undercooked meat
• Cat scratch fever — a bacterial infection from a cat scratch or bite

Immune system disorders

• Lupus — a chronic inflammatory disease that targets your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and lungs
• Rheumatoid arthritis — a chronic inflammatory disease targeting the tissue that lines your joints (synovium)

Cancers

• Lymphoma — cancer that originates in your lymphatic system
• Leukemia — cancer of your body’s blood-forming tissue, including your bone marrow and lymphatic system
• Other cancers that have spread (metastasized) to lymph nodes

Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin (Dilantin) and preventive medications for malaria.

Complications

If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn’t treated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

Ito Clinic

Thyroid functions

Location and size of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, slightly
below the Adam’s apple. It covers the trachea, as if
butterfly spread its wings. Its size is about 4 cm
in height and weight up to 20 g.
The thyroid gland is a very thin and soft organ. IN
Normally, it cannot be detected
touching the neck, but even a slight swelling is good
palpable. Larger swelling is clearly visible
to the naked eye.

The body produces different types of hormones (female
hormones, male hormones, adrenal hormones, etc.).
Organs that produce hormones are called endocrine
organs, and the thyroid gland is one of them. Her
function is to produce thyroid hormones from
iodine contained in food (mainly in marine
algae).

What are thyroid hormones

Food proteins, fats and
carbohydrates are metabolized and used
as materials for tissue formation or as
energy for the body. Thyroid hormones function
stimulation or intensification of these metabolic processes
substances. In addition, they play an important role in the development of the fetus and
the growth of the child’s body.

There are two types of thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4),
containing four iodine atoms, and triiodothyronine (T3) containing
three iodine atoms.

The thyroid gland produces mainly
Thus, T4, which is transformed into T3 in the liver and other
organs and performs its function as a hormone.

Most T4 and T3 are bound to plasma proteins.
The hormones that act in the body are free T4 (Free
T4=FT4) and free T3 (Free T3=FT3), not associated with proteins
blood, which are tested in a blood test.

Functions of the pituitary gland

The body has a mechanism to maintain
almost constant level of thyroid hormones in
blood. This system is controlled by thyroid stimulating hormone.
(TSH), which is produced by part of the brain –
pituitary gland. This hormone has the function of stimulating
thyroid gland and inducing the production of thyroid
hormones (T4, T3).

If the level of thyroid hormones (T4, T3) in the blood
becomes too high, the amount allocated
pituitary TSH decreases, which reduces the production of T4 and
T3. On the other hand, with a decrease in the concentration of T4 and T3 in
the amount of TSH secreted in the blood increases, stimulating
secretion of T4 and T3. This system is called the “mechanism
feedback” and constantly regulates the level of thyroid
hormones in the blood within a certain range.

Lump in the throat – reasons for feeling a lump in the throat

What is a lump in the throat

A lump in the throat is an unpleasant symptom: it seems to a person that something is stuck in the airways or esophagus. This feeling leads to severe discomfort, nausea, a desire to constantly cough and swallow actively secreted saliva. Sometimes patients cannot breathe normally: they complain of stirring, itching and sore throat when inhaling and exhaling.

Coma can occur alone or in combination with other symptoms: fever, fatigue, chills, sore throat, muscles, joints, back, neck or stomach. In some cases, the voice becomes hoarse or disappears.

Why there is a sensation of a lump in the throat

The feeling of a lump in the throat often appears with acute respiratory infections and allergies, pathologies of the thyroid gland, cervical spine and gastrointestinal tract, throat tumors, and also due to psychological disorders.

Inflammation of the oropharynx

One of the common causes of a lump in the throat is infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract . They lead to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx, often accompanied by high fever and general intoxication: pain in muscles, joints, fatigue and drowsiness.

The cause of such diseases can be infection with influenza viruses, adeno-, corona- and rhinoviruses. Another causative agent of acute respiratory diseases (ARI) can be bacteria: staphylococci, streptococci, mycoplasmas, pneumococci and others.

In addition to infections, allergies can lead to sore throat . For example, respiratory, medicinal or food. Upon contact with an allergen, the mucous membrane can swell greatly, which creates an additional feeling of squeezing and a foreign object in the throat.

The main types of inflammation of the oropharynx, causing a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, are pharyngitis, tonsillitis, uvulitis and laryngitis.

Pharyngitis – inflammation of the back of the throat. Symptoms – redness and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx, sore pain when swallowing, perspiration, dry cough.

Sensation of a lump in the throat with pharyngitis, as a rule, is localized closer to the upper part of the pharynx.

Acute tonsillitis , or tonsillitis, is an inflammation of the palatine tonsils located on the sides of the pharynx, near the uvula. Accompanied by severe pain in the throat, including when swallowing, enlargement of the tonsils, sometimes the appearance of purulent plugs in their structure. The purulent contents may be dense, felt when swallowed, and interfere strongly.

With lacunar angina, pus appears in the cavities of the tonsils

Uvulitis – inflammation of the uvula. It is manifested by pain when swallowing, perspiration, sometimes breathing problems, snoring, nausea and exacerbation of the gag reflex, profuse salivation and a desire to constantly swallow saliva.

The sensation of a foreign object in the throat during uvulitis is concentrated mainly in the region of the palatine uvula or behind it.

Laryngitis – inflammation of the larynx (section of the respiratory tract, which is located below the pharynx – in the neck). The main symptoms of laryngitis are a hoarse voice or loss of it, a “deep” sore throat, and a cough.

A lump in the throat with laryngitis feels like a “stuck pill” – not in the throat itself, but below. For example, in the region of the Adam’s apple or the interclavicular fossa at the bottom of the neck. The symptom may be aggravated by talking, and also cause an uncontrollable desire to swallow saliva.

Diseases of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ located in the lower part of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate various biological processes.

In some diseases, the thyroid gland becomes inflamed and enlarges, compressing the airways and esophagus. Usually in such cases, a bump appears on the neck, which is called a goiter. It can not only be visible externally, but also be felt by the patient himself when swallowing and breathing.

An enlarged thyroid gland looks like a swelling on the neck, in the throat area

Possible causes of thyroid lump in the throat:

• diffuse toxic goiter, Graves’ disease, or Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease. It is manifested by an increase in the thyroid gland, bulging eyes, fever, sweating, impaired stool, palpitations;
• Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland due to an autoimmune reaction, infection, or injury. It is manifested by fever, pain, as well as redness and swelling of the skin on the neck (front). Sometimes there is pain when swallowing.

Pathologies of the cervical spine

The cause of a coma in the throat can also be degenerative-dystrophic changes in the cervical spine (osteochondrosis). This pathology develops with thinning of the intervertebral discs – cartilage, which provide cushioning under stress and are responsible for the mobility and flexibility of the spine.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the cervical spine can cause a sensation of a lump in the throat

The feeling of a lump in the throat with osteochondrosis occurs due to pinching of the nerve endings that are responsible for sensitivity in the pharynx. In fact, there is no edema or inflammation of the mucous membranes with such a pathology.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is primarily manifested by pain in the neck and back when tilting and turning the head. A lump in the throat is a secondary symptom.

Diseases of the stomach

Feeling of a lump in the throat may appear due to disorders associated with the work of the stomach or esophagus. For example, a symptom sometimes accompanies gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . This is a pathology of the esophageal sphincter – a valve that allows food to enter the stomach, but does not allow it to splash back.

In GERD, food along with gastric juice is often thrown into the esophagus and can reach the pharynx, causing spontaneous acid belching. Acidic content burns the mucous membrane of the esophagus and respiratory tract, if it has time to get into them. As a result, inflammation and irritation of the receptors occurs.

In GERD, the feeling of a lump in the throat occurs due to regular damage to the mucous membrane of the esophagus by gastric juice

Also the cause of coma in the throat can be esophagitis – inflammation of the mucous membrane of the esophagus with a violation of its integrity. Food passing through the esophagus irritates the inflamed tissue and leaves behind a feeling of a foreign body in the throat.

Another likely cause of a lump in the throat is esophageal dyskinesia . It occurs when the muscles cannot cope with pushing the food bolus and it literally rises across the throat.

Neoplasms

Possible causes of a coma in the throat include various neoplasms – benign and malignant tumors, cysts, polyps.

Neoplasms can grow large, grow and narrow the lumen of the pharynx, and compress the larynx and esophagus, causing a feeling of a foreign object that interferes with breathing or swallowing.

In patients with cancer of the throat or larynx, the sensation of a lump may be the first sign of illness. However, unlike other diseases, the symptom persists permanently.

Psychogenic causes

Patients with depressive disorders, neurosis – a disorder of the nervous system due to anxious thoughts and strong emotions – as well as people experiencing severe stress, may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat.

It appears due to a spasm of the pharyngeal muscles as a reaction to strong feelings: sadness, joy, excitement, fear. Usually, the symptom intensifies with emotions and goes away when the person calms down.

Injuries and foreign objects

Trauma can be another reason for feeling like a lump in the throat. For example, a burn of the mucous membrane of the pharynx and esophagus with a very hot drink or food, swallowing hard, rough or sharp objects (a piece of cracker or refined sugar, a lollipop with sharp edges, large bones from vegetables and fruits).

In addition, some objects can actually get stuck – stuck in the mucous membrane or stick to it. For example, thin fish bones often get stuck in the throat of patients. Sticky objects, such as medicine capsules swallowed without water, usually do not cause a long-term sensation of a lump in the throat, but can also be a short-term cause.

Diagnosis of diseases that are accompanied by a sensation of a lump in the throat

First of all, the doctor will ask about complaints, about the time of the onset of the symptom and its duration, will take an interest in recent diseases and general well-being.

If a lump in the throat is not the only symptom, it is important to tell the doctor about other sensations that bother the patient. This will narrow the scope of the diagnosis.

To assess the general state of health and the strength of the inflammatory process, a specialist may prescribe a clinical blood test and a study on C-reactive protein – one of the main markers of inflammation.

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If the doctor suspects a specific infectious disease, he will prescribe a targeted analysis to identify the pathogen. Broad-spectrum tests are also recommended, such as stool culture.

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If the patient has complaints about general well-being, and the thyroid gland is enlarged, the therapist will refer the patient for hormone tests, as well as to an endocrinologist and an ultrasound examination.

Thyroid

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Ultrasound will allow you to assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland, and tests will reveal violations in its work.

In case of an allergic reaction, the physician may refer the patient to an allergist. The doctor will ask about the allergy and its manifestations, and to identify the allergen, he will prescribe an analysis for sensitivity to various irritants.

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Gastroenterologist deals with pathologies of the stomach and esophagus. To diagnose gastroesophageal reflux or dyskinesia of the esophagus, the doctor can perform gastroscopy (examination of the stomach and esophagus from the inside using a gastroscope device), esophageal manometry (measurement of the contractile strength of the muscles of the esophagus), and also refer to an X-ray examination of the esophagus using a barium contrast solution.

In the absence of signs of thyroid disease or symptoms of a cold, the therapist will refer the patient to an otolaryngologist – ENT. He will conduct an endoscopic examination of the larynx and vocal cords using a special instrument – a laryngoscope or an endoscopic probe with a camera. An otolaryngologist also deals with throat injuries – for example, you should contact him if something is stuck in your throat.

If neoplasms are found, it is necessary to undergo an examination by an oncologist. The doctor will perform a biopsy – take a piece of the tumor for examination, and also prescribe tests to determine its nature: benign or malignant (cancer).

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If a spinal pathology is suspected, the therapist will recommend a consultation with an orthopedist or neurologist. These doctors may order an MRI of the cervical spine to assess the condition of the intervertebral discs and identify pinched nerve endings.

If, after all the examinations, the cause is still not found, the patient may be referred to a psychiatrist. Consultation with this doctor will confirm or rule out the psychogenic nature of the symptom.

Which doctor should I contact if I feel a lump in my throat

The primary diagnosis of diseases accompanied by a sensation of a lump in the throat is carried out by a therapist. He will assess the patient’s condition, collect an anamnesis and, if necessary, refer him to a narrow profile doctor: an otolaryngologist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, allergist, orthopedist, neurologist, oncologist or psychiatrist.

How to get rid of the sensation of a lump in the throat: treatment

The symptom itself does not require treatment. Therapy will depend on its cause – infection, allergy or other disease.

Infectious diseases are treated with topical antiseptics, gargles, and antibiotics or antivirals, depending on the pathogen.

If you have allergies, your doctor may recommend antihistamines, as well as ways to protect yourself from the allergen. For example, a diet, wearing a mask during the flowering period of certain plants, frequent wet cleaning of the house.

Diseases of the stomach are treated primarily with diet and drugs. In gastroesophageal reflux disease, drugs are prescribed that reduce the acidity of gastric juice – proton pump inhibitors and antacids, as well as prokinetics – they accelerate the contraction of the muscles of the esophagus and the promotion of the food bolus. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Esophageal dyskinesia is treated with drugs that relieve muscle spasm.

Pathologies of the cervical spine are treated by a neurologist and an orthopedist. Patients with degenerative-dystrophic changes in the cervical spine (osteochondrosis) are recommended to exercise therapy, massage, manual therapy, taking anti-inflammatory and painkillers.

Diseases of the thyroid gland are treated by an endocrinologist. If an infection has become the cause of inflammation of the gland, antibiotics, antifungal or antiparasitic drugs are prescribed, depending on the pathogen.

For the treatment of Graves’ disease, thyreostatics are prescribed – they inhibit the production of hormones by the thyroid gland – as well as radioactive iodine. In some cases, surgery is required.

Hormones are recommended for autoimmune thyroiditis or dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

The treatment of benign neoplasms that interfere with normal life may require surgical removal with a scalpel or laser.

Malignant neoplasms (cancer) are treated in a complex way: chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgical removal of the tumor are used.

Foreign objects can be reached by an otolaryngologist. In this case, the symptom will pass immediately or as soon as the wound heals if the object was sharp.

For psychogenic causes of a coma in the throat, a psychiatrist or psychotherapist is involved in the treatment. He will interview the patient, make a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Depending on the disorder, these may be antidepressants or sedatives.

Prevention of sensation of a lump in the throat

There is no specific prevention of the symptom, as it accompanies many different diseases.