Lumps on the neck can have various causes, ranging from harmless to more serious conditions. Here are some common reasons why a lump might appear on the neck:
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Cause: Infections (common cold, flu, strep throat, ear infections)
- Characteristics: Soft, tender, movable, often appearing in clusters
- Action: Usually resolve on their own but see a doctor if they persist beyond two weeks or grow larger
2. Cysts
- Cause: Blocked sebaceous glands, congenital conditions (like branchial cleft cysts)
- Characteristics: Smooth, painless, movable under the skin, may become inflamed
- Action: Usually harmless, but a doctor can remove them if needed
3. Lipomas (Fatty Tumors)
- Cause: Noncancerous fatty growths
- Characteristics: Soft, painless, slow-growing, movable
- Action: No treatment needed unless bothersome
4. Thyroid Nodules or Goiter
- Cause: Thyroid disorders, iodine deficiency, or tumors
- Characteristics: Located in the front of the neck, may affect swallowing or breathing
- Action: Needs medical evaluation, especially if growing or affecting function
5. Salivary Gland Problems
- Cause: Infections, stones, or tumors in salivary glands
- Characteristics: Painful or painless swelling near the jaw or under the ear
- Action: Requires medical evaluation, especially if persistent or painful
6. Skin Abscesses or Infected Lumps
- Cause: Bacterial infections (boils, abscesses)
- Characteristics: Red, warm, painful, may drain pus
- Action: May need antibiotics or drainage
7. Cancerous Lumps
- Cause: Lymphoma, thyroid cancer, metastasis from other cancers
- Characteristics: Hard, painless, fixed, rapidly growing
- Action: Requires urgent medical attention and biopsy
When to See a Doctor?
- Lump persists longer than two weeks
- Hard, fixed, or rapidly growing
- Causes difficulty swallowing, breathing, or speaking
- Associated with unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fatigue
If you have a lump on your neck and are unsure about its cause, it’s always best to get a medical evaluation.