swollen, sore glands by earlobes

[Tiggertheterrier]

For last 6 to 9 months the glands just behind both my earlobes have been swollen and very sore. I don't have any infection, temperature is normal, just the usual daily battle against hypersecretion caused by bronchiectasis on top of long term asthma. Also have the usual partner of bronch, chronic rhinosinusitis. Although I mention them to doctors, not one has physically examined them or given me an explanation. While acknowledging that I don't expect medical advice in replies, I just wondered if anybody else suffered with the same thing, and if anything helped to sort it out. Thanks in advance.

[Lorcas_15]

I wonder if you have checked the NHS advice for swollen glands? I am not a medic but I feel that as your swollen glands have persisted so long your GP should be taking notice.

[Tiggertheterrier in reply to Lorcas_15]

yes, have read a lot on various websites, including NHS one. They mostly ssuggest that they are caused by an infection. Sometimes it can be glandular fever, but have no other symptoms of infection. Getting an appointment with a GP is a total nightmare at my surgery. But I think I'll have to sit on the phone pressing the redial button until they answer the phones.

[Poobah in reply to Tiggertheterrier]

If you can't get an appointment at your GPs by normal routes, try the 111 service. They can assess your current need to see a doctor or practitioner nurse and if they believe your symptoms require a face to face appointment, they can note your records that an appointment is necessary. Yes, you still need to telephone the GP surgery to make that appointment, but at least the receptionist will see that your records recommend an appointment. In the past, I've used a walk in centre for minor injuries after the 111 service sent me there. It wasn't local, but they were extremely helpful.

If you have swollen lymph nodes, and you don't think you have an infection, they should definitely be examined to establish what's causing such long term swelling. I know you describe them as glands, but we have lymph nodes just behind the lower ear and any changes in their health should be properly assessed, especially as they form part of the lymph system.

[madonbrew]

That's really strange timing to see this post. I've literally just booked an appointment to see my GP for swollen glands in my armpits that have been up for 4 weeks or so. Like you, I don't think I've got an infection, but thought I better get it checked. I'd book an appointment with your GP just to get them checked.

[Tiggertheterrier in reply to madonbrew]

isn't that an odd coincidence! A couple of sites suggest a link to allergies, but say that is unusual. But as my symptoms can be bizarre at times, this may be another oddity to add to the list!!!! I couldn't get through to the surgery at all yesterday, so will have to try again today.

[ChrissieMons]

You can ask your doctor for a blood test for glandular fever and anything else he would like to rule out.

[Poobah]

If you're taking Montelukast, that can cause swollen lymph nodes and swollen neck glands. Check the patient leaflet that accompanies the medication and talk to your doctor if the swelling continues.

[Tiggertheterrier in reply to Poobah]

hiPoobah, thanks.....I have been on Montelukast for around 3 years, it could well be that!!