A lump in your neck: what to know

The neck contains lymph nodes, the thyroid gland, salivary glands, muscles and other tissues. A recent infection can enlarge a lymph node, while a thyroid nodule or cyst can create a lump lower in the neck. A neck lump is a presentation of head and neck cancer in some people, a presentation of lymphoma in some people, and a presentation of thyroid cancer in some people; most lumps still need examination before their cause is known.

A clinician may ask how long it has been present, whether it is growing, painful or movable, and whether you have fever, night sweats, weight change, hoarseness, swallowing difficulty or ear pain. Examination may be followed by imaging or a needle sample.

Book a medical assessment for a lump that persists, grows, feels hard or fixed, returns after an infection, or has no clear explanation. Note its location and changes without repeatedly pressing it. Bring details of recent infections, dental problems, smoking or tobacco exposure, medicines and previous cancer treatment.

Do not assume the lump is cancer and do not try to drain it. If tests cannot identify where a cancer began, the care team may discuss cancer of unknown primary while continuing the diagnostic work-up.

Seek emergency care for a neck lump with trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing swelling, severe bleeding or sudden weakness. Contact a clinician urgently for new hoarseness, persistent swallowing difficulty, coughing blood, or a lump that is enlarging quickly.

Ask which structure the lump seems to involve, whether an ultrasound or needle sample is appropriate, when results will be available, and which changes should prompt faster review.