I Have a Lump on My Neck — Is It Cancer?

I Have a Lump on My Neck — Is It Cancer?

Finding a lump on your neck can be alarming. Here is what you need to know.

The vast majority of neck lumps are not cancer. The neck has many lymph nodes that can swell in response to infections, and there are also glands, muscles, and other tissues that can form benign lumps.

• Common causes include:
• Swollen lymph node — from a cold, flu, sinus infection, tooth infection, or sore throat. This is the most common cause
• Epidermoid cyst — a harmless, slow-growing bump under the skin
• Lipoma — a soft, fatty lump that is benign
• Thyroid nodule — a lump in the lower front of the neck, most are benign
• Salivary gland enlargement — from infection or a stone in the salivary duct
• Branchial cleft cyst — a birth remnant that can become noticeable later in life

A persistent, painless, enlarging lump in the neck — especially if you have no signs of infection — is the more concerning scenario.

What to Look For

• Usually not serious:
• Tender, painful lump (infection usually hurts)
• Lump that appeared with a cold or sore throat and shrinks as you recover
• Soft, movable, and easy to push around
• Red, warm skin over the lump (sign of infection)
• Goes away within 2–3 weeks

• Worth having checked:
• Painless lump that has lasted more than 3 weeks
• Hard, rubbery, or fixed lump that does not move when pushed
• Lump that is growing steadily
• Multiple lumps on one side of the neck
• Accompanied by a sore throat, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing

When to See a Doctor

• See a doctor if:
• A neck lump lasts longer than 3 weeks without shrinking
• The lump is painless, hard, and growing
• You also have a persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or ear pain
• You have difficulty swallowing or breathing
• You have unexplained weight loss or night sweats

Clinical Guidance