Lumps or masses in the neck range from small obstructions that are barely visible to larger mounds that can be seen from afar. Neck masses can be related to an active infection, or in rarer cases, they can be cancerous.
What are Neck Masses?
Neck masses can be small or large, soft or hard, tender or pain-free. Many neck masses are caused by bacterial or viral infections and are benign. In certain cases, however, the mass may be cancerous, so it’s essential that the growth is medically evaluated. Our experienced ENT specialists have years of expertise when it comes to dealing with tumors, so they can guide you on the most relevant and advanced treatment plan.
With that said, as adults age the chances of a lump being cancerous increase. Your risk further increases of this risk with a history of prolonged tobacco and alcohol use, HPV infection, and other lifestyle choices.
Neck Mass Symptoms:
- Visible lumps or bumps in the neck
- A mass that is consistently growing larger
- Changes in vocal sound
- Difficulty swallowing
- Earaches
- Hearing impairment
- Weight loss
- Fever