For some people, the appearance of a lump in the neck can be confusing and worrying. The presence of a lump in the neck can be a sign of a mild condition such as an infection, to a more serious health condition such as cancer. It is important to recognize the cause in order to get the right treatment.
The size, location, and other symptoms can provide important clues as to the cause of a neck lump. To understand how they form, it's helpful to understand the various medical conditions that can cause neck lumps.
Causes of Lumps in the Neck
The following are some medical conditions that can cause lumps to appear in the neck:
1. Mumps
Mumps is a contagious disease that attacks the parotid glands located under the ear. Inflammation of these glands is caused by a virus from the paramyxovirus group.
This disease easily attacks children aged 2-12 years who have not been vaccinated with MMR and have weak immunity. Mumps can be transmitted through saliva droplets, direct contact, and sharing eating utensils.
In addition to causing swelling under the ears or cheeks, sufferers will experience symptoms including fever, headache, and pain when swallowing.
2. Thyroid
Thyroid disease is a medical condition that arises due to disturbances in the shape or function of the thyroid gland in the neck. This condition is not contagious and is more common in women.
This condition includes conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. The causes are diverse, namely lack of iodine consumption, inflammation of the thyroid gland, genetics, and autoimmune diseases.
Symptoms of thyroid disease depend on the type. Too much hormone causes tremors, insomnia, and heart palpitations, while too little hormone causes hair loss, edema, and fatigue.
3. Cyst
A cyst is a lump filled with fluid, air, or solids that forms under the skin or in a part of the body. Types of cysts that can cause lumps in the neck include sebaceous cysts, thyroglossal duct cysts, and thyroid cysts.
The causes of cysts vary, sebaceous cysts are caused by damaged sebaceous gland ducts, thyroglossal duct cysts are caused by thyroglossal ducts that fail to disappear, and thyroid cysts are caused by changes in thyroid gland tissue.
Most of these cysts are benign and harmless. However, if the lump in the neck continues to grow and is painful, consult a doctor immediately to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
4. Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer caused by changes in the DNA of white blood cells called lymphocytes, an important part of the human body for fighting disease viruses.
Lymphocytes can be found in various tissues of the body, including the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and digestive tract. If lymphocytes in the lymph nodes mutate and grow out of control, cancer cells will form.
The mutation can potentially cause lumps in the neck and other parts of the body. In addition to lumps in the neck, symptoms of lymphoma also include fever, itching, shortness of breath, and night sweats.
5. Cancer
Lumps in the neck can not only be caused by thyroid cancer and lymphoma, but can also be caused by other types of cancer, such as mouth and throat cancer.
These two types of cancer are generally triggered by the habit of consuming cigarettes and alcohol, poor oral hygiene, and minimal intake of fruit and vegetables.
In addition to a lump in the neck, symptoms of oral cancer include a stiff jaw, difficulty speaking, and a sore throat. Meanwhile, throat cancer can cause a chronic cough, sore throat, and ringing in the ears.
How to Treat Lumps in the Neck
How to get rid of a lump in the neck depends on the cause of the condition. If the lump in the neck is caused by a contagious viral disease such as mumps, you can get enough rest and take medication.
However, if the lump in the neck is caused by lymphoma, oral cancer, or throat cancer, the treatment needed may include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
Consult a Doctor Immediately
Early examination can help prevent complications and ensure the cause of the lump is clearly known. Be aware if symptoms such as fever, pain, or a lump that grows rapidly appear.
If the condition continues to worsen, consult a doctor immediately so that treatment can be given quickly and according to the cause.
Article written by dr. Jefri, Sp.B (General Surgery Specialist) & dr. Irawati, Sp. ENT – BKL (Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist – Head and Neck Surgery) EMC Hospital Tangerang.