Quick version
A lump on the side of the neck is usually harmless, but it should be taken seriously if it doesn’t go away or begins to grow and change in shape. Common causes include:
- Swollen lymph nodes due to infection (e.g., a cold)
- Cysts or fatty lumps (benign)
- Thyroid changes
- Tumours – both benign and cancerous
- The lump remains for more than 2–3 weeks
- It grows, changes shape, or feels different
- You have symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or difficulty swallowing
- You smoke or are over 40 years old
Yes, in some cases. Especially if you smoke, drink a lot of alcohol, or have HPV. Common warning signs include:
- Painless lump that grows
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent hoarseness
- Blood in the saliva
- Blood tests – to detect infections, inflammation, or thyroid issues
- Ultrasound – to assess the lump’s contents
- MRI scan – for a detailed image of the neck area
Common causes of a lump on the side of the neck
A lump on the neck can appear suddenly or become noticeable after growing over time. Some of the most common causes include:
Swollen lymph nodes
This is most common during conditions such as a cold, tonsillitis, or other infections. The lymph nodes react by swelling, especially on the side of the neck.
Cysts or fatty lumps (lipomas)
These are benign and often completely harmless. Cysts and lipomas usually feel soft and movable under the skin.
Thyroid changes
If the lump you have discovered is located near the larynx, it may be an enlarged thyroid gland or nodules in the thyroid.
Tumours
Both benign and malignant (cancerous) tumours can cause lumps on the neck. This is especially true if the lump does not go away or continues to grow.
When should you seek medical care?It is important to seek medical attention if any of the following apply to you:
- The lump does not disappear within 2–3 weeks
- You have not recently had a cold or other infection that could explain the lump
- The lump increases in size or changes shape or consistency
- You have additional symptoms such as fever, sweating, weight loss, or difficulty swallowing
- You are a smoker (increased risk of head and neck cancer) or over 40 years old
Lumps that are painless but slowly growing should always be evaluated.
Could it be cancer?
Yes, in some cases a lump on the neck can be a sign of cancer in the mouth, throat, larynx, or lymph nodes. The risk is higher if you:
- Smoke or use snuff
- Drink large amounts of alcohol
- Have HPV (human papillomavirus)
Symptoms that may indicate cancer include persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, blood in saliva, and a painless lump that grows over time.
It’s important not to jump to conclusions — but equally important not to wait too long. If you are worried about a lump on your neck, you are advised to seek medical care.
Lump on the neck – what examinations are possible?
To determine the cause of your lump, a combination of examinations is often needed:
- Blood tests: Blood tests can provide information about infections, inflammation or thyroid problems.
- Ultrasound of the neck: A painless and effective method to assess whether the lump contains fluid or solid tissue, as well as nearby structures. One relevant examination is thyroid ultrasound.
- MRI scan: An examination with MRI of the neck provides a highly detailed image of the soft tissues in the neck, especially if a tumour or deeper changes are suspected.
Worried about a lump on your neck? Don’t wait — the earlier you seek help, the easier it is to get the right assessment. At Testmottagningen.se you can order blood tests, ultrasound, and MRI scans. Have questions? Contact us — we’re here to help.
