-
Colds and respiratory infections.
-
Tonsillitis.
-
Strep throat.
-
Ear infections.
-
Dental infections.
-
Certain skin infections.
The swollen nodes may be tender, especially when touched. They can appear on one or both sides of the neck, depending on the location of the infection.
In most cases, the swelling gradually improves as the underlying illness resolves.
However, if the node continues growing, remains unexplained, or develops concerning characteristics, a healthcare professional should assess it.
2. Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Enlargement
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the lower neck.
It produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and several other important functions.
Sometimes, a lump develops within the thyroid. These growths are called thyroid nodules.
Most thyroid nodules are benign, and many do not cause noticeable symptoms.
They may be discovered accidentally during a physical examination or an imaging test performed for another reason.
Some nodules become large enough to produce visible swelling or a sensation of pressure in the neck.
Others may be associated with difficulty swallowing, breathing discomfort, or changes in thyroid hormone levels.
Although most thyroid nodules are not cancerous, doctors may recommend an ultrasound and, depending on the nodule's characteristics, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
3. Cysts
A cyst is a closed structure that contains fluid or other material.
Certain cysts can develop in the neck and may be present from birth, even if they do not become noticeable until adulthood.
For example, a branchial cleft cyst may appear along the side of the neck. A thyroglossal duct cyst commonly develops near the middle of the neck and may move when swallowing or sticking out the tongue.
Some cysts remain stable for years. Others become enlarged or painful if they become infected.
A doctor can often gather useful information from the lump's location and physical characteristics, although imaging may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
An adult neck mass should not automatically be assumed to be a harmless cyst without appropriate evaluation.
4. Salivary Gland Problems
The salivary glands produce saliva, which helps lubricate food and supports digestion.
The major salivary glands are located around the jaw, beneath the tongue, and near the ears.
A blocked salivary duct can cause a buildup of saliva and swelling. Salivary stones, inflammation, and infections may also produce noticeable lumps.
One useful clue is whether the swelling or discomfort becomes worse during meals.
This can happen because the salivary glands produce more saliva when you eat, increasing pressure behind a blocked duct.
Most salivary gland problems are treatable, but persistent or unexplained swelling should still be examined.
Chapter 4: When a Neck Lump Could Be Associated With Cancer
Although most neck lumps are not cancerous, doctors take persistent unexplained masses seriously because certain cancers can first appear as swelling in the neck.
The possibility becomes more important when a lump persists, grows, feels firm, or occurs alongside other unexplained symptoms.
There are several conditions doctors may consider.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system.
It is commonly divided into two broad categories: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
One possible early sign is an enlarged lymph node, often in the neck, armpit, or groin.
Unlike lymph nodes enlarged by some infections, lymphoma-related swelling may be painless.
Some people also experience what doctors call systemic or constitutional symptoms, including:
-
Unexplained fever.
-
Drenching night sweats.
-
Unintentional weight loss.
-
Persistent fatigue.
-
Generalized itching in some cases.
However, these symptoms are not exclusive to lymphoma.
A person with a painless neck lump does not necessarily have lymphoma. Diagnosis requires appropriate medical testing.
Head and Neck Cancers
Cancers can develop in structures such as the mouth, throat, tonsils, tongue, larynx, and other areas of the head and neck.
In some cases, cancer cells spread to nearby lymph nodes, creating a lump that becomes noticeable before the original tumor causes obvious symptoms.
This is particularly important because certain throat-related cancers can initially produce relatively subtle symptoms.
A person may notice a painless swelling in the neck while experiencing only mild throat discomfort, persistent hoarseness, or one-sided ear pain.
Risk factors vary according to the specific cancer but can include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and infection with certain types of human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV.
People who smoke or regularly consume substantial amounts of alcohol should be particularly attentive to persistent symptoms involving the mouth, throat, or neck.