Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Throat Tightness, Back Pain And Swollen Lymph Nodes In A Smoker?
Question: Hi,
I am a pack a day smoker (20 cigarettes a day). I also recently had intercourse with my girlfriend who has strep throat. Prior to intercourse, I noticed that after a cigarette, my breathing became increasingly laboured. It feels as though my throat is closing up. In addition, I woke up this morning with sharp back pain concentrated on my right middle back region.
The pain is present when I rotate, bend over or take a deep breath. In addition, my lymph nodes are swollen and my throat feels dry. I feel as though most of the irritation is coming from the back of my throat (around my uvula).
My left ear is also clogged and I cannot seem to pop it. I am not sure if any of these symptoms have any direct link, but I am aware that many of them match respiratory diseases such as lung cancer. I am a 25 year old white male.
I am a pack a day smoker (20 cigarettes a day). I also recently had intercourse with my girlfriend who has strep throat. Prior to intercourse, I noticed that after a cigarette, my breathing became increasingly laboured. It feels as though my throat is closing up. In addition, I woke up this morning with sharp back pain concentrated on my right middle back region.
The pain is present when I rotate, bend over or take a deep breath. In addition, my lymph nodes are swollen and my throat feels dry. I feel as though most of the irritation is coming from the back of my throat (around my uvula).
My left ear is also clogged and I cannot seem to pop it. I am not sure if any of these symptoms have any direct link, but I am aware that many of them match respiratory diseases such as lung cancer. I am a 25 year old white male.
Brief Answer:
no cancer...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
it sounds more like an upper respiratory tract infection and a lot of anxiety. Since your girlfriend is ill, you'll probably become ill too. The swollen lymph nodes (neck nodes I suppose?), the clogged ears and sore throat are all symptoms of common upper respiratory tract infections. There is absolutely no reason to worry more than this condition deserves.
Lung cancer does not sound like this at all. Chronic cough, perhaps with bloody sputum is the main symptom.
I hope it helps!
Kind Regards!
no cancer...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
it sounds more like an upper respiratory tract infection and a lot of anxiety. Since your girlfriend is ill, you'll probably become ill too. The swollen lymph nodes (neck nodes I suppose?), the clogged ears and sore throat are all symptoms of common upper respiratory tract infections. There is absolutely no reason to worry more than this condition deserves.
Lung cancer does not sound like this at all. Chronic cough, perhaps with bloody sputum is the main symptom.
I hope it helps!
Kind Regards!
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
