Schedule a medical evaluation if:

• A lump is new and has no obvious explanation.
• It continues to grow.
• It lasts longer than two to four weeks.
• It becomes painful or repeatedly returns.
• It bleeds or develops an open sore.
• You notice any of the four warning signs discussed above.

Early evaluation doesn't mean something serious is wrong—it simply helps ensure that any necessary treatment can begin as soon as possible.

Don't Panic—But Don't Ignore It

Finding a lump can be unsettling, but remember that most lumps are not cancer. At the same time, paying attention to changes in your body is one of the best ways to protect your health.

If a lump is growing, feels unusually hard or fixed, causes skin changes, or is accompanied by other unexplained symptoms, don't wait for it to go away on its own. A healthcare professional can determine the cause and recommend the appropriate next steps.

Listening to your body and seeking medical advice when something doesn't seem right is always a smart decision.