I feel slight pain under left jawline only when I touch it, upon tilting my head backwards I could feel something swollen and painful to touch, its movable ,it has been there for a while and also I feel a little pain in gums while brushing my teeth on lower left jaw. I do not have any abscess on tooth. Is it a swollen lymph node? It has been a while and I have not experienced any other symptom. I am worried if its life threatening. Please do advise. Thanks.

Dr. Karun GuptaDentist14yrs exp

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I understand your concern about the swollen and painful area under your left jawline. While I can't provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical examination, I can offer some information and advice that may help: swollen lymph nodes: it's likely that the lump under your jaw is a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and can swell in response to various causes, including infections, allergies, and sometimes, more serious conditions. Swollen lymph nodes due to common infections like the cold or flu usually resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, if the swelling persists for more than two weeks, grows rapidly, becomes hard and fixed, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, it's crucial to see a doctor for further evaluation. Gum pain: the pain in your gums while brushing on the lower left jaw could be related to the swollen lymph node, possibly due to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. It could also be a sign of gum disease, a cavity, or another dental issue. If the gum pain persists or worsens, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a checkup. Life-threatening: while it's always good to be cautious, it's unlikely that your swollen lymph node is life-threatening, especially given that you haven't experienced any other significant symptoms. Recommendations: monitor the swelling: observe if the lump grows or changes in texture, and take note of any new symptoms like fever, night sweats, or difficulty swallowing. Warm compress: apply a warm compress to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Practice good oral hygiene: maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly. This can help reduce gum inflammation and prevent potential dental issues. See a doctor: if the swelling doesn't improve within a few weeks, grows rapidly, becomes hard and fixed, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. See a dentist: schedule an appointment with your dentist to assess the gum pain and rule out any dental issues. Remember, I am not a medical professional and this information should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. It's important to seek proper medical attention for accurate diagnosis and treatment. I hope this information is helpful and puts your mind at ease. Please feel free to ask any further questions you may have.  

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