I would first like to say congratulations and best wishes to every one of you who have endured your own personal experiences. You are all a great support system for one another. I have been reading this site religiously and have finally decided to join.
I understand that this is not meant for diagnosis purposes; however, I know that advice/info, support etc is given unconditionally so therefore, i would like to share my story.
I am in my early 20s and about 5 mos ago, was diagnosed with TMJ due to cheek pain, jaw pain, ringing/congestion of ears. However, at the time, I had some 'palpable' lymph nodes on the affected side (ENT and doc did not seem concerned). After all the doc visits, I slowly noticed certain changes in my tonsillar tissue (same side as affected side). I have been disregarding it as regular 'tonsillar crypts' but in fact, I may just be in denial. I am terrified of the unknown and especially after recent news in rising cases of OC, I am truly scared. I am going for professional advice this week and just so scared. Could it be that it had started off in the lymph nodes and now I am finally seeing changes in the tissue? If there are certain 'precursors' to lesions or changes, shouldn't it have been caught by both ENT and dentist?
I just wanted to hear stories of those who "may" have been similar to mine or any suggestions/advice.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.