Finding a lump in your neck can feel worrying. It might appear suddenly or grow over time, often leading to questions and concern. Many lumps are harmless and linked to infections or swollen glands, but others may point to underlying conditions.
One possible but often overlooked cause involves the thyroid gland – a small, butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck.
In this article, we’ll explore the connection between thyroid problems and neck lumps, what signs to look for, and when it’s time to seek expert help.
What does a thyroid lump feel like?
A lump linked to thyroid issues usually sits low in the front of the neck (either in the midline or slightly off the midline), just above your collarbone. It may move slightly when you swallow. Some people might notice it while looking in the mirror, while others might feel it when washing or shaving.
It can be a single lump (nodule), or the whole gland might feel enlarged, known as a goitre.
Thyroid lumps can be painless and often cause no symptoms at all. However, they may be linked with:
- A feeling of pressure in the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hoarseness or a change in voice
- A visible swelling that seems to grow over time
If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to get checked by a doctor, ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist or any other healthcare professional who specialises in seeing people with thyroid lumps.
Could my neck lump be something serious?
Most types of neck lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and can be anything from thyroid nodules to cysts. In fact, thyroid nodules are quite common, particularly in women and older adults.
Thyroid lumps can result from:
- Thyroid cysts or benign nodules – fluid-filled or solid growths that are often harmless
- Multinodular goitre – an enlarged thyroid with multiple nodules
- Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid, which can be autoimmune (such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis)
Thyroid cancer can also cause a neck lump, though this is rare. It is more common in people with a family history or previous exposure to radiation. Around one in 20 neck lumps may be linked to cancer, so getting any new neck lump checked is important.
How are thyroid lumps investigated?
Your GP or ENT specialist will typically begin with a physical examination of your neck lump.
They may then arrange:
- Blood tests to assess your thyroid hormone levels
- An ultrasound scan to check the structure of the thyroid and see whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA), where a small sample of cells is taken from the lump to rule out cancer
In some cases, further imaging tests or a team review may be required.
When to seek help for a neck lump
If you discover a new lump in your neck, it’s always a good idea to have it properly checked, especially if the lump is:
- Firm or hard
- Not moving with swallowing
- Linked with hoarseness
- Causing difficulty swallowing or weight loss
- Associated with a constant sore throat, ear pain or any unusual symptoms
Thyroid-related neck lumps are often manageable and may need little treatment. However, early checks can help you avoid worry and ensure timely treatment if needed.
Find support for neck lumps and thyroid problems with ENT Sheffield
If you’ve noticed a lump in your neck or are concerned about thyroid issues, it’s worth seeking specialist advice. Mr Wale Olarinde is a highly experienced ENT consultant with expertise in neck lumps and thyroid conditions. He can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through any necessary investigations or treatment.
Book an appointment with Mr Wale Olarinde today for peace of mind and expert care.