What should you know about a lump inside the skin on your neck?

A neck lump may be a skin cyst, an inflamed hair follicle, a swollen lymph node, or another benign growth. A lymph node can enlarge while the body responds to an infection in the throat, teeth, ears, or skin. A thyroid or salivary-gland problem can also create a swelling in the neck. A neck lump is a presentation of several conditions, including lymphoma, thyroid cancer, and head and neck cancer; the lump alone cannot identify its cause.

Notice whether the lump is tender, warm, red, soft, firm, fixed, or mobile. Record when you first noticed it and whether it changes with swallowing, eating, or a recent illness. Do not squeeze, pierce, or repeatedly press it.

Arrange a clinical assessment if the lump does not settle, keeps returning, grows, or has no clear explanation. A clinician may examine your mouth, throat, thyroid area, and nearby lymph-node regions. Depending on the findings, assessment may include imaging or a needle sample. Bring a list of recent infections, medicines, dental problems, and any change in voice or swallowing.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, spreading redness, or a high fever. Arrange prompt review for a firm or fixed lump, a lump above or below the collarbone, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, persistent hoarseness, or coughing or swallowing symptoms that do not improve.

Ask what structures lie beneath the lump, whether you need an ultrasound or other test, and which changes should prompt an earlier review. Ask how you will receive results and whether a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist or another clinician is appropriate.