1. Swollen Lymph Nodes – Often caused by infections (like a cold, flu, or throat infection). They usually feel tender and may shrink after the infection resolves.
2. Cysts – Fluid-filled sacs, like thyroglossal duct cysts or sebaceous cysts, are usually harmless but may need treatment if they become infected or grow.
3. Goiter or Thyroid Nodules – Swelling of the thyroid gland can cause lumps in the front of the neck. Some nodules are harmless, but others may require further evaluation.
4. Infections – Skin infections, abscesses, or dental infections can cause a lump that is red, warm, and painful.
5. Benign Tumors – Non-cancerous growths such as lipomas (fatty lumps) are usually soft and painless.
6. Cancerous Lumps – Though less common, some neck lumps can be cancerous, including lymphoma, thyroid cancer, or metastases from other cancers. These are often firm, painless, and persistent.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if a neck lump:

• Is hard, growing, or painless
• Persists for more than 2-3 weeks
• Is accompanied by night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or fever
• Causes difficulty swallowing, breathing, or moving your neck

What Doctors Usually Do

A doctor may perform:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests (for infection or thyroid function)
• Ultrasound or CT scan
• Biopsy if there’s concern about cancer