When to See a Doctor Seek medical attention if a neck lump: What Doctors Usually Do A doctor may perform:
Neck lumps are fairly common and can have many different causes—some harmless, others requiring medical attention. Here are the most common causes of neck lumps:
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Usually caused by infections (like a cold, flu, strep throat, or dental infection).
- Nodes may feel tender, movable, and enlarge temporarily.
2. Thyroid Conditions
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter).
- Thyroid nodules or cysts, which may be benign or, rarely, cancerous.
3. Infections and Abscesses
- Bacterial or viral infections can cause localized swelling.
- Abscesses may form, leading to painful, pus-filled lumps.
4. Benign Growths
- Lipomas (soft, fatty lumps).
- Fibromas or other non-cancerous tissue growths.
5. Cysts
- Branchial cleft cysts (congenital, usually found in children/young adults).
- Thyroglossal duct cysts, which can move when swallowing or sticking out the tongue.
6. Salivary Gland Disorders
- Blocked salivary ducts or infections (sialadenitis).
- Benign or malignant tumors in salivary glands.
7. Cancers
- Lymphoma, thyroid cancer, salivary gland cancer, or metastases from other areas.
- Usually firm, persistent, and non-tender.
8. Trauma or Injury
- Bruising or hematomas after an injury can appear as lumps.
⚠️ When to see a doctor:
If a neck lump is hard, fixed, growing quickly, persists longer than 2–3 weeks, or is accompanied by symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, difficulty swallowing, or persistent sore throat, medical evaluation is essential.
