Tired, Sore Throat, and Swollen Glands? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Arlington, TX

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Tired, Sore Throat, and Swollen Glands? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Arlington, TX

If you’ve been feeling unusually tired despite plenty of rest, and you’re also struggling with a sore throat that won’t go away, along with swollen glands in your neck and some odd spots on your tongue, it’s understandable to feel concerned. These symptoms can be unsettling, and searching for information is a smart first step to understand what might be going on. You’re not alone, and it’s good that you’re looking for answers.

This post is designed to help guide you through possible next steps: who you might see for these symptoms in Arlington, TX, what initial visits might involve, and an overview of typical costs you could expect if you’re paying out of pocket. Our goal is to empower you with clear information so you can confidently take the next step toward care.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Arlington, TX

Based on your symptoms of fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, and changes in your tongue, several types of healthcare providers could be helpful starting points:

  • Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who can diagnose and treat a wide range of everyday health issues. They are very approachable for initial evaluations and can order basic tests or referrals.
  • Internal Medicine Doctor: Specialists in adult medicine focusing on diagnosing complex or chronic conditions. They can provide a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and relevant lab testing.
  • Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist): Doctors who specialize in ear, nose, and throat conditions. They are experts if your sore throat and swollen glands may be related to deeper or more specific issues in those areas.
  • Infectious Disease Specialist: Experts in conditions caused by infections. If a contagious or unusual infection is suspected after initial evaluation, this type of doctor may be the next step.

Each of these providers can play a role in getting to the bottom of your symptoms and helping you feel better.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of potential visits and procedures with estimated self-pay costs in Arlington, TX. Keep in mind these are averages and may vary by provider.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: A detailed consultation where the doctor will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and discuss your health history to determine possible causes.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.68 (typically ranges from $143.76 to $239.60)

  • Provider Availability: This cost estimate is based on 502 Family Practice providers in Arlington.

  • Procedure: Blood draw (insertion of needle for sample) (CPT Code: 36415)

  • Purpose: A basic blood test sample might be taken to check your blood counts, signs of infection, or other health markers.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.96 (ranges from $9.72 to $16.20)

  • Provider Availability: Based on 163 providers offering this service.

  • Procedure: Strep throat test (CPT Code: 87880)

  • Purpose: This quick test checks if your sore throat is caused by streptococcus bacteria, a common and treatable cause.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.32 (ranges from $19.31 to $37.33)

  • Provider Availability: 33 providers in Arlington.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or outpatient visit (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: An in-depth evaluation to help diagnose underlying causes of fatigue and throat symptoms, especially if your condition is complex.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.87 (ranges from $143.90 to $239.84)

  • Provider Availability: 364 providers available.

  • Procedure: Blood tests such as complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025) and thyroid-stimulating hormone test (CPT Code: 84443)

  • Purpose: Blood tests to check for infections, anemia, or thyroid issues, which could explain your fatigue and swelling.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: CBC: $12.14 ($9.11 to $15.18); TSH: $26.30 ($19.73 to $32.88)

  • Provider Availability: 45 providers for CBC, 41 for TSH test.

Visit with an Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist)

  • Procedure: Established patient visit (CPT Code: 99214)

  • Purpose: Evaluation focused on your sore throat, swollen glands, and tongue changes by a specialist who can offer more detailed exams or procedures.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $198.40 (ranges from $148.80 to $248.00)

  • Provider Availability: 64 providers.

  • Procedure: Ultrasound scan of head and neck soft tissue (CPT Code: 76536)

  • Purpose: A non-invasive imaging test to look closely at swollen glands or tissues in your neck for abnormalities.

  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $177.06 (ranges from $132.79 to $221.32)

  • Provider Availability: 2 providers.

Visit with an Infectious Disease Specialist

  • Procedure: Established patient visit (CPT Code: 99214)
  • Purpose: If infection is suspected but unclear, a specialist will further evaluate and recommend targeted treatment.
  • Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $185.04 (ranges from $138.78 to $231.30)
  • Provider Availability: 45 providers.

Your health and peace of mind are important. Here’s how you can move forward confidently:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Contact a Family Practice or Internal Medicine provider first, as they can assess your overall symptoms and guide any further specialist referrals if needed. If your throat symptoms or swollen glands are prominent, an Otolaryngologist (ENT) is also a good choice.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all your symptoms—including fatigue, sore throat duration, swollen glands, and tongue changes. Note how long you’ve had them and any other concerns or questions.
  3. Discuss Costs Upfront: When booking, ask about the costs of office visits and any recommended tests. The figures above are estimates for self-pay; your insurance coverage or provider selection may affect your final costs.
  4. Stay Reassured: Remember, many causes of sore throat and tiredness are treatable once properly diagnosed. Seeing a healthcare professional is the best way to find answers and start feeling better.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about healthcare options and estimated costs based on local data. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition.