In the neck region there are two organ systems that will be discussed as part of this book. These are the cervical lymph node groups and the external larynx, including the thyroid gland. The former are examined in relation to a number of ENT symptoms because they are the draining lymph node groups. In such cases, the history-taking will concentrate on the organ where the primary symptom is located. The external larynx and thyroid gland have a specific indication for examination and require a specific history-taking.
Prediagnosis
Congenital abnormalities,
Obstruction,
Inflammation,
Tumours,
Vascular problems,
Trauma,
Degenerative disorders involving the:
– thyroid cartilage
– thyroid gland
– cervical lymph node groups
Allergy
During the history-taking consider the following:
- What is the precise nature of the complaint?
- How long has the feeling of having a lump in the throat been present?
- Does the patient also have a sore throat?
- Is he frequently tired?
- Does he often feel cold or, on the contrary, hot?
- Does he perspire a lot?
- Does the patient suffer from constipation or, on the contrary, diarrhoea?
- Has the patient gained any weight or lost weight?
- Any change in appetite?
- Has the patient, or someone he knows, noticed something about his eyes lately?
- Does he suffer from double vision?
- Does he feel that he is shaking?
- Has the patient experienced any palpitations (fast heart rhythm)
- Does the patient have any menstruation abnormalities (if applicable)?