Submandibular gland removed a year ago... Why is there still pain?

[nh_user_1178692]

It was in May of 2016 when it all started...

I was having a piece of candy when I felt my entire left side of neck swell up. I (obviously) freaked out but I ended up convincing myself that it might've been a bug bite (I know, what kind of logic is that?) Anyway... The swelling went away that next morning (thankfully). I didn't think about it twice after that.

In May of 2017, I felt the swelling happen once again. This time I was having dinner and felt my neck swell and harden up. Did my research and booked an appointment with a specialist that very next day.

I took several scans and xrays before I was told that I had a salivary gland stone blocking my left submandibular gland. We agreed to a less evasive procedure called a "sialendoscopy" but that did not work because of how deep and big the stone had become. My ENT surgeon claimed that it was way too tucked in behind the gland that there was no way he could remove it unless through surgery and removal of the gland. I was hesitant at first because I had done some reading on the possible side effects but I eventually agreed.

Recovery went well. 

Now I'm in May of 2018 and find myself dealing with pain once again in the same area. There is no swelling or hardening of any sort. It feels more of aching, soreness, tenderness, discomfort, stiffness, etc. Not only that but as soon as I started experiencing these symptoms, I also started dealing with severe migraines. Really, really bad migraines. I was taking 2 (500mg) tylenols every 2 hours just to take the pain away.

(Sidenote: I haven't dealt with migraines since I was probably 14... I'm 24 now.)

I don't know what is going on but I am 100% sure that the pain is related to this issue. Has anyone had any similar issues/symptoms? If so, what was the diagnosis? 

[nh_user_1042758]

I can't diagnose but I can tell you my symptoms and outcome. I had a hard lump behind my right ear that was getting bigger. Then one day I ate something that was sour and it was really painful, and the whole right side of my face swelled up. I went to my regular doc-she said it was a blocked salivary gland gave me pain pills and told me the best way to get rid of it is suck on sour candies all weekend and take my pain pills and it will pass.....

the pain and swelling did go away, but the lump stayed. Eventually after several ultrasounds I went to an ear nose throat doc who said no matter what it would need to come out or it would just continue to get bigger. So we went in and he took it out. Good thing because it was stage 2 acinic cell carcinoma. I had radiation and going on almost 3 years cancer free. I didn't even know there was such a thing. But I did notice before the surgery, my throat was always sore, my voice was a little hoarse like I had allergies or coming down with a cold that never fully developed. It was weird...anyway I hope this helps a little. Feel free to ask me anything else.