I Have a Painful Lump Under My Chin

I Have a Painful Lump Under My Chin

A painful lump under your chin can be uncomfortable and concerning. Here is a closer look.

A painful lump under the chin is most often a swollen lymph node from an infection. The area under the chin (submental region) contains lymph nodes that drain the lower lip, floor of the mouth, tip of the tongue, and front teeth.

• Common causes include:
• Swollen lymph node — from a cold, flu, throat infection, or dental infection
• Submandibular gland infection — a salivary gland infection that causes pain and swelling
• Salivary stone — a stone in the salivary duct that blocks saliva flow, causing painful swelling that worsens when you eat
• Dental abscess — infection from a lower front tooth
• Infected sebaceous cyst — a cyst that has become red, tender, and infected
• Cellulitis — a spreading skin infection

What to Look For

• Usually not serious:
• Tender, painful swelling that appeared with a cold or sore throat
• Lump that gets smaller as you recover from the illness
• Pain that comes and goes with eating (likely a salivary stone)
• Redness and warmth over the area (infection)
• Improves with warm compresses and hydration

• Worth having checked:
• Painful lump that does not improve in 1–2 weeks
• Swelling that is getting larger despite treatment
• Hard, fixed lump that remains painful
• Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
• Fever that does not go away

When to See a Doctor

• See a doctor or dentist if:
• The lump does not improve after 1–2 weeks
• The swelling is getting worse
• You have a fever
• You have difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
• You notice pus draining from the area
• The lump becomes hard and persists even after the pain goes away

Clinical Guidance