Quick answer
What could lump in neck mean?
A lump in the neck is most often a swollen lymph gland reacting to an infection, and these tender lumps usually settle within two weeks. A painless lump that persists for more than two weeks needs GP assessment, particularly in smokers, because it can occasionally be a sign of head and neck cancer.
Understanding lumps in the neck
A lump in the neck can arise from several structures, including the lymph nodes, the thyroid gland and the salivary glands. How long the lump has been present, and what it looks and feels like, are the main features that guide how urgently it needs to be assessed.
Common causes of a neck lump
The most common causes are reactive lymph nodes, which swell while the body fights an infection, along with thyroid nodules and cysts. Head and neck cancer is a rare cause, but it is an important one, which is why persistent lumps should always be checked.
Watchful waiting for a neck lump
If a lump appears alongside an infection, treating the infection is usually all that is needed, because reactive glands tend to settle as you recover. If the lump has not settled within two weeks, arrange a review with your GP.
When a neck lump needs specialist referral
If a lump has suspicious features, such as being painless, persistent or growing, your GP can refer you on the urgent suspected cancer pathway. An ultrasound scan is commonly used to assess neck lumps and guide any further investigation.
Common questions about lump in neck
- Why are the glands in my neck swollen?
- Lymph glands in the neck swell as they help the body fight infection. These reactive glands are usually tender and typically settle within two weeks as the infection clears.
- What happens if I find a lump on my thyroid?
- Thyroid lumps are common and are usually assessed with an ultrasound scan and blood tests to check thyroid function. Your GP can arrange these investigations and refer you if anything needs further assessment.
- What are the signs that a neck lump could be cancer?
- Warning signs include a painless lump that persists, hoarseness and unexplained weight loss. The risk is higher in smokers, so these features need prompt GP assessment.
- Can glandular fever cause a lump in the neck?
- Yes, glandular fever often causes prolonged swelling of the glands in the neck. You should still see a GP for a review if the swelling is getting worse rather than settling.