Lump on the back of the neck near the hairline

Nodes at the back of the head and upper neck may respond to inflammation or infection affecting the scalp, skin, or ear. A blocked hair follicle, cyst, or other surface lesion can feel similar, especially when it sits directly under the hairline. Tenderness and a recent local problem can provide context, but they do not replace an examination.

A lump that is firm, fixed, enlarging, or present without an obvious local cause deserves medical review. The clinician may inspect the scalp and ears, feel other lymph nodes, and examine the mouth, throat, and thyroid region. Possible diagnoses include non-cancerous conditions as well as [Lymphoma](/conditions/lymphoma/), [Head and Neck Cancer](/conditions/head-and-neck-cancer/), or another source requiring investigation.

Use a mirror or ask someone you trust to help record where the lump sits. Note its approximate size, whether it moves under the skin, whether the skin is red or warm, and whether it changes when you have a cold, scalp rash, ear problem, or dental symptom. Do not lance, pop, or massage it. Book an appointment if it persists, enlarges, returns, or has no clear explanation.

Get urgent help if swelling affects breathing or swallowing, grows quickly, or comes with severe pain or a high fever. Seek prompt assessment for a hard or immobile lump, persistent night sweats, unexplained weight loss, ongoing fever, or a lump that continues to enlarge. These signs indicate the need for timely evaluation, not a confirmed cause.

Ask whether the lump seems to be in the skin, a lymph node, or deeper tissue; whether the scalp and ears could be contributing; and whether you need imaging or sampling. Ask how long to observe it, what change should trigger review, and whether any nearby symptoms alter the assessment.