Neck lumps are commonly enlarged lymph nodes from infection, but they can also arise from the thyroid, salivary glands, cysts present from birth, or occasionally cancers of the head and neck. Any neck lump lasting more than 3 weeks in an adult should be examined.
Head & Neck Condition
Neck Lumps
A lump in the neck has many possible causes — persistent lumps in adults need prompt evaluation.
Overview
Common symptoms
- A swelling in the neck
- Pain or tenderness (with infection)
- Associated sore throat, hoarseness or swallowing difficulty
- Weight loss or night sweats (in some cases)
Common causes
- Reactive lymph nodes from infections
- Tuberculosis of lymph nodes
- Thyroid or salivary gland swellings
- Congenital cysts
- Head and neck cancers
How it is diagnosed
Full ENT examination including endoscopy of the throat
Ultrasound
FNAC (needle test)
CT/MRI and biopsy when needed
Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on the cause: medicines for infection, surgical removal for cysts, thyroid or salivary gland surgery, or a planned cancer treatment after accurate diagnosis.
Surgical treatment options
DL BiopsyDirect laryngoscopy and biopsy for accurate diagnosis of throat and voice box lesions.ThyroidectomySurgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland.ParotidectomyRemoval of the parotid salivary gland or tumours within it, with facial nerve…Submandibular Gland ExcisionRemoval of the submandibular salivary gland for stones, infection or tumours.
See a doctor promptly if you have:
- A neck lump lasting more than 3 weeks
- A hard, painless or growing lump
- Lump with hoarseness, swallowing difficulty or weight loss
Frequently asked questions
Most are from infections and settle, but persistent lumps must be checked.
A quick test using a fine needle to take cells from the lump for examination — usually done in the clinic.
This page is for general patient information and does not replace a medical consultation. The right treatment depends on your examination and test results.
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