Pinch/ache on left side of neck/throat when swallowing. No other symptoms. Ongoing for 3 weeks.

Hello. I've been experiencing a dull ache or pinch in the pocket of my neck under my left jaw, between my adam's apple and neck tendon. It's near where the left lymph node is or where you feel for a pulse. It only occurs when swallowing, particularly saliva. It has been present for 3 weeks and hasn't gone anywhere. Ibuprofen wards it off for a few hours, but it's generally very strange. It comes and goes, but is mostly there, especially in the mornings or at night and sometimes ibuprofen does nothing. I have seen a Doctor who said I had a sinus infection, despite my sinuses feeling fine. I've taken antibiotics for a week and nothing has changed.

This is putting me into a deep depression. I strongly feel it's related to my neck or lymph node area as eating doesn't hurt and gargling salt water has no effect as far as I can tell. I haven't had any injuries. Acid reflux doesn't seem to be the issue, either. I have no clue what this is but the fact that it has lasted for 3 weeks is very concerning. My next Doctor's appointment is in 2 weeks time. Any insight would be greatly appreciated. To clarify further, it's just a pinch on the left side of my neck near where you feel for a pulse. The ache is a 3 out of 10 on the pain scale. I'm a 27 year old in otherwise good health. I did smoke for 5 years in the past so that may factor in, though I'm doubting it.