If you notice a lump in your neck, it’s important to be evaluated by a doctor quickly.
The majority of neck lumps are not serious threats to your health. The leading reason is often enlarged lymph nodes, which can be caused by a virus or an infection such as tonsillitis or strep throat. This is a normal reaction of the immune system as it tries to combat illness. A fever that is recent or ongoing is a sign that this might be the cause. Other potential causes include thyroid nodules, cysts, or harmless (non-cancerous) growths like tumours or other growths such as lymphangiomas or haemangiomas, which are fluid-filled sacs or extra blood vessels in vascular birthmarks.
Regarding possible warning signs, we’re on the lookout for growths that have been there for over two weeks without any accompanying signs or symptoms of infection.
Additionally, the risk increases if you’re over 40 years old, the growth measures more than 1.5 centimetres (roughly the size of your index finger) across, you have more than one growth, the growth shows changes in the skin or ulcers, or if the growth is connected to nearby tissues.
Certain types of cancer can cause a lump in your neck.
These include:
Your main family physician might suggest antibiotics to address a bacterial infection that might be leading to the enlargement of your lymph nodes. Nonetheless, if the swelling continues after starting antibiotics, it’s crucial to schedule a visit with an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) who focuses on surgeries of the head and neck, preferably within two weeks. This becomes particularly vital if you’re above 40, smoke or use other tobacco items, or consume alcohol, as these habits elevate your chances of developing head and neck cancer.
An ENT might propose a needle biopsy to identify the nature of the lump. In this process, your physician will use a needle to gather cells from the lump or a nearby lymph node. These cells are then examined in a lab to determine if there’s cancer present.
An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist might suggest an operation to get rid of the growth in your neck, but only once they’ve done a detailed check-up and tests to identify precisely what the growth is and the most effective method for dealing with it. Be wary of doctors who suggest surgery without an established diagnosis.
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