Experiencing a neck lump can be an alarming and uncomfortable situation, often leading to feelings of anxiety and concern. Neck lumps, while frequently harmless, can also indicate serious health conditions. Understanding how ENT specialists diagnose neck lumps is crucial for managing your health effectively.
Common causes of neck lumps
Neck lumps can arise due to various reasons, most commonly from swollen lymph nodes reacting to infections or diseases in the body. Less serious causes include:
- Skin problems
- Dental infections
- Throat infections (e.g. tonsillitis, glandular fever)
- Ear infections
When to get help for neck lumps?
Noticing a neck lump can be hard to ignore, and it’s wise not to dismiss it. While not all neck lumps warrant immediate concern, certain symptoms accompanying a neck lump should prompt immediate medical attention:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained ear pain on the same side
- Constant sore throat
- A non-healing mouth sore or ulcer
- Weight loss
- Persistent hoarse or lost voice
- Difficulty breathing
- Blocked nose on the same side
Visiting your GP or a neck lump specialist is a good first step. They will go through your health history, perform a physical examination, and possibly conduct further tests to determine the underlying cause of the lump.
Diagnostic procedures for neck lumps
ENT specialists use a variety of diagnostic procedures to evaluate neck lumps and identify their causes. These procedures help determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Initial assessment
The first step in diagnosing a neck lump involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. The specialist will:
- Assess the lump’s size, shape, and consistency.
- Check for additional lumps.
- Evaluate associated symptoms and risk factors, such as smoking or alcohol consumption.
Ultrasound scan
An ultrasound scan is a non-invasive imaging technique that helps assess the size, shape, and consistency of the neck lump. It provides a clear image of the lump and surrounding tissues, aiding in initial diagnosis.
Needle biopsy
A needle biopsy involves using a thin needle to extract a small sample of cells from the lump. This sample is then examined under a microscope to identify any abnormal or cancerous cells. It is a critical step in diagnosing cancerous lumps.
CT or MRI scans
In certain cases, a CT (Computed Tomography) scan or an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan may be necessary to get a more detailed view of the lump and surrounding tissues. These imaging techniques help identify the exact location and extent of the lump.
Treatment options for neck lumps
The treatment for a neck lump depends on its underlying cause. For instance:
- Infection-induced lumps may subside with appropriate antibiotic or antiviral treatment.
- Benign lumps such as lipomas may be left untreated unless they cause discomfort, in which case they can be surgically removed.
- Cancerous lumps require a comprehensive treatment approach, often involving surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.
Diagnosing and treating neck lumps requires specialised knowledge and skills. Mr. Wale Olarinde, an expert ENT specialist, focuses on treating both cancerous and non-cancerous head and neck diseases. With his extensive expertise, Mr. Olarinde can accurately investigate and treat various kinds of neck lumps, providing patients with the necessary care and peace of mind.
If you have concerns about a neck lump, seeking professional advice from an expert like Mr. Olarinde can be your first step towards effective treatment and recovery.