What Causes Discomfort Neck Along With Mild Sore Throat?

Posted on Tue, 21 Jul 2015

Question: I have been experiencing some un-comfort in my neck.Its not exactly pain,but it is swelling.I think my thyroid gland has swelling.Mild sore throat accompanying it.Situation not getting worsen and not getting better since 10 days.

Help me out!

Answered by Dr. Albana Sejdini (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possibly throat infection;ENT examination&culture of throat swab advised

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am sorry for the situation you are in.

1. Experiencing some un-comfort in your neck with mild sore throat, I believe it might be due to possible tonsillitis or pharyngitis.

2. You are saying that your thyroid gland is swelling. Please take note that during the throat infection, there are various submandibular (under jaw) lymph nodes that get swollen and by mistake might be taken as thyroid gland.

3. To my opinion, you need a complete check up by ENT specialist to rule out throat infection and to get an ultrasound of the thyroid gland to see if it is really swollen or affected in any way. A culture of throat swab is also advised to rule out/determine related infections.

Thyroid function test is also advised (checking for TSH, T3 and T4).

4. For the moment, I advise to;
- keep good oral/throat hygiene
- gargle with warm water and salt
- take oral anti-inflammatory medications
- use oral anti-septic solutions

until you see ENT specialist.

Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Albana Sejdini (9 minutes later)

sure doctor.I have booked appointment with local ent doctor.But it is on july 14.

Ten days ago i have met General Physician.She tested my throat for strep and result came out to be negative.

I have habit of smoking but not its not too high.Its like 5-6 a day.I also quit smoking since two weeks!

Now this is really worrying me!

Answered by Dr. Albana Sejdini (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
If symptoms are getting worse, should go to ER for immediate treatment...

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

1. July 14 is too far to get an answer to your problems. If your current neck problems are impairing your quality of life; then, can go to ER for immediate evaluation and treatment.

2. I am happy that Strep throat was negative. However, strep is not the only causative agent on the throat. Mono or EBV should be also ruled out too through other lab tests.

3. Smoking is an aggravating factor to throat issues. I am happy that you quit smoking since 2 weeks now. Still I think you need further evaluations. No need to worry unnecessarily. Wait until tests results are in and ENT opinion.

4. If everything is ok with your ENT tract, then, can schedule an appointment with endocrinologist and run the above-mentioned thyroid tests to rule out thyroid problems.

Once again, no need to worry that much; I'm sure you'll get the solutions to your problems.

Dr.Albana

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar