Published on: 7/22/2025
What's Causing My Unexplained Symptoms?
10s, Male
I'm not sure if the diagnosis I received is correct, given the symptoms I've been experiencing. Regarding my bowel movements, I've had no solid stool, with either constant diarrhea, stool of weird shapes, or sometimes just mucus. I also have lower abdominal pain. I sometimes experience chest pain around my sternum, which occasionally happens when I wake up at night. In addition, I've had ear aches, migraines, and blurry vision. It has felt like I've had tonsillitis due to bad breath and tonsil stones, but I've also noticed a lump in the area of my epiglottis. I also have swollen lymph nodes on the right side, both near the bump and lower down on my neck. The bump itself isn't painful to touch, but it feels like I have something stuck in the back of my throat, like a cherry.
Dr. Taylor’s Response
I understand you're experiencing a complex set of symptoms including digestive issues, abdominal and chest pain, and various head and neck symptoms. It's understandable that you're concerned and unsure about your diagnosis.
Based on your description, several conditions could potentially be involved:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Chronic sinusitis or sinus infection
- Tonsillitis or peritonsillar abscess
- Epiglottitis or other throat infection
- Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) due to infection or other causes
Given the variety and persistence of your symptoms, I strongly recommend seeking a second opinion, preferably from a gastroenterologist and an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can provide more specialized evaluations and may order additional tests like:
- Endoscopy or colonoscopy
- Imaging studies (CT scan or MRI)
- Blood tests for inflammation markers
- Stool tests
- Throat culture or biopsy if needed
In my experience, complex symptom sets like yours often require a multidisciplinary approach for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In the meantime, keep a detailed symptom diary including what you eat and when symptoms occur. This information can be valuable for your healthcare providers.
Remember, you have the right to advocate for your health. If you feel your concerns aren't being adequately addressed, don't hesitate to seek additional medical opinions.
Take care, and I hope you find answers and relief soon.
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