A lump in the neck is likewise called a neck mass. Neck lumps or masses can be large and noticeable, or they can be very little. A lot of neck swellings are benign (noncancerous) and not damaging. But a neck lump can likewise be a sign of a serious condition, such as an infection or a cancerous growth.
If you have a neck lump, your doctor should assess it quickly. See your doctor right away if you have an unexplained neck mass.
Are Lumps on Neck Dangerous?
There are many causes of swellings in the neck. The most typical swellings or swellings are bigger lymph nodes. These can be brought on by bacterial or viral infections, cancer (malignancy), or other rare causes.
Swollen salivary glands under the jaw might be caused by infection or cancer. Swellings in the muscles of the neck are triggered by injury or torticollis. These swellings are often at the front of the neck. Lumps in the skin or simply listed below the skin are typically brought on by cysts, such as sebaceous cysts.
The thyroid gland might also produce swelling or several swellings. This can be due to thyroid disease or cancer. Many cancers of the thyroid gland grow very slowly. They are frequently treated with surgery, even if they have actually existed for numerous years.
All neck lumps in children and grownups need to be checked immediately by a healthcare supplier. In children, a lot of neck lumps are caused by infections that can be treated. Treatment needs to start quickly to avoid complications or the spread of infection.
As grownups age, the likelihood of the lump being a cancer boosts. This is especially true for individuals who smoke or drink a great deal of alcohol. Many swellings in adults are not cancers.
Causes of Lumps on Neck
Swellings in the neck from swollen lymph nodes may be triggered by:
- Bacterial or viral infection
- Cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Allergic reaction
Lumps in the neck due to enlarged salivary glands may be triggered by:
- Infection
- Mumps
- Salivary gland growth
- Stone in salivary duct
Home Care
See your provider to have the reason for the neck lump treated.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your healthcare company if you have an abnormal neck swelling or swellings in your neck.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The healthcare service provider will take your case history and do a physical exam.
You might be asked concerns such as:
- Where is the lump found?
- Is it a tough lump or a soft, pliable (relocations a little), bag-like (cystic) mass?
- Is it painless?
- Is the whole neck swollen?
- Has it been growing larger? Over how many months?
- Do you have a rash or other symptoms
- Do you have problem breathing?
If you are diagnosed with a thyroid goiter, you might have to take medicine or have surgery to eliminate it.
You might require the following tests if the company believes a thyroid nodule:
- CT scan of the head or neck
- Radioactive thyroid scan
- Thyroid biopsy
If the lump is caused by a bacterial infection, you might need to take antibiotics. If the cause is a noncancerous mass or cyst, you may need surgery to remove it.
Neck lumps can happen to anyone, and they’re not always signs of something serious. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to see your doctor to be sure. Like all illnesses, it’s much better to get identified and treated early, specifically if your neck lump turns out to be brought on by something more serious. If you have a neck lump and you’re concerned, call your doctor.
