How do I manage a swollen lymph node on my left clavicle?

Question

Hello doctor,

I noticed a swelling in my lymph node on the left clavicle yesterday evening. It is quite small but feels firm and looks almost exactly like the one on my neck that made me come here in the first place. The feeling of tiredness is getting stronger, and it is starting to feel like exhaustion of the bones. I sleep for 10 hours but still need to take naps during the day.

My laboratory reports from last week showed an ESR of 58 mm/hr and mild anemia. I know these can be associated with Hodgkin's, but I am trying not to overthink it. The PET scan is next week, and the waiting is really stressing me out. Can you remind me what the usual treatment looks like if this is confirmed? I read about ABVD chemo and heard about hair loss, fertility issues, etc. Should I consider freezing my eggs now? I am only 32 and still hope to have kids someday.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns.

What you are describing, like new lymph node swelling, bone-deep fatigue, and night sweats, is understandably stressful, especially while you are waiting for your PET (positron emission tomography) scan. It is completely normal to feel anxious; waiting for results can be one of the hardest parts.

In case your PET scan results indicate Hodgkin lymphoma, the common method of therapy for early stages of the disease is chemotherapy with ABVD (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine). This type of chemotherapy is very successful in treating Hodgkin lymphoma; however, there are some adverse effects such as hair thinning or hair loss, tiredness, nausea, and infertility issues.

Taking into consideration your age and your desire to have children, it is extremely important to preserve your fertility prior to receiving chemotherapy. It is possible to freeze eggs or embryos during two weeks; this option is more dependable than any other one. In addition, some changes in the menstrual cycle are possible during chemotherapy, but later on they can normalize.

Supportive care during treatment includes anti-nausea medications, monitoring blood counts, and regular follow-ups to track your response. It is normal to feel scared, and reaching out to your oncologist or a fertility specialist now can help establish a plan and give you a sense of control. Your concerns are very important, and asking questions shows that you are taking proactive steps for your health and future family planning.

I hope I have addressed all of your queries and concerns. Please follow up whenever needed.

Take care and have a nice day.