A lump on the neck is otherwise termed as a neck mass. Lumps in the neck can be enormous and noticeable, or they can be minimal. Most neck lumps aren’t severe. Most are noncancerous and benign. However, a neck lump can likewise be an indication of an acute condition, such as cancerous growth or infection. 

In case if you notice any neck lump, your doctor should assess it quickly and provide necessary remedies. Hence it is always suggested to visit your doctor for neck lump immediately on the off chance that you have an unusual neck mass.

Conditions that cause neck lumps

There are several causes for the occurrence of neck lump, but here are some of the most common causes for the neck lump. 

• Infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis usually occurs in children under 18 and is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Swollen lymph glands, fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, night sweats, and pain are some of the symptoms of this infection. The symptoms usually last up to 2 months. 

• Thyroid nodules

Thyroid nodules are fluid-filled lumps that usually occur in the thyroid gland. The classification of this lump is based on whether they produce thyroid hormone. Some common classification of the lump is warm, cold, or hot. Most of the thyroid nodules are harmless, but some might be a sign of serious health problems like autoimmune disease or cancer. 

• Saliva glands

Swollen saliva glands could be another possible reason for neck lumps. These glands are present under the jaw. They seem to be normal under the usual circumstance and may become swollen due to exposure to infection or cancer. The neck lumps may also be due to muscular injury to the neck. However, some other bumps are present under the skin there could be cysts.

Other common reasons for swollen lymph nodes are ear infections, tonsillitis, sinus infections, strep throat, dental infections, or sometimes bacterial infections of the scalp.

When should you be concerned about your neck lump?

You should see a doctor for neck lumps if you notice any anomaly that shows up on your body, but at the same time, the facts confirm that some of these conditions are harmless than others. However, since a mass on your neck could, in some uncommon cases, demonstrate cancerous growth, so it’s essential to get them examined at the right time. 

Most of the swollen lymph nodes because of viruses, infection, and general inflammation are incredibly normal and aren’t a reason for severe health issues. Less harmful diseases can be treated with home remedies also, such as drinking a lot of water with lemon and rinsing with salt water. Also, Salivary gland infections are quite common and can easily be treated with antibiotics as bacteria cause them. 

Are all neck masses cancerous?

The straightforward answer is no! Not all neck lumps are cancerous. As mentioned above, most of the masses are treatable, and some may even disappear on its own. 

What to expect when you visit your doctor for a neck lump?

Your doctor will probably need to get some information about your wellbeing history, including insights regarding your way of life habits and disease symptoms. Your specialist will need to realize to what extent you’ve been smoking or drinking and the amount you smoke or drink every day. They’ll likewise need to know when your symptoms began and how extreme they are. This will be trailed by a physical test and blood test to determine the possible cause. Sometimes higher WBC might indicate a possible infection. 

During the physical exam, your healthcare provider will carefully examine your scalp, eyes, ears, nose, throat, mouth, and neck.