HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Lump On Neck, Tender, Getting Larger In Size. Family History Of Cancer. Suggestions?

I have a lump on the right side of my neck. It is hard and sometimes tender to the touch. I have first noticed this about 3 months ago and I think it may have gotten slightly larger over this time. I am a 31 year old woman and, yes, I do smoke about a pack a day. I am just wondering if this is something that I should have checked out by my regular physician? I do not feel this lump on the other side of my neck. I have a family history of cancer (my father had prostate cancer and I had an aunt that had breast cancer).
Mon, 13 May 2013
Report Abuse
General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello!

Thank you for the query.

Most likely this lump is an lymph node which has gotten enlarged due to some infection. Infection associated lymph node is usually movable, with smooth surface and can be painful. Cancer caused enlargement of a lymph node usually gives painless, hard and not movable lump.

As you do smoke, larynx or throat cancer risk is increased. The best way to check what exactly you are dealing with, is to perform soft tissues ultrasound of this area and have biopsy of this lymph node.

Hope this will help.
Regards.
I find this answer helpful
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Recent questions on Prostate


Loading Online Doctors....
Lump On Neck, Tender, Getting Larger In Size. Family History Of Cancer. Suggestions?

Hello! Thank you for the query. Most likely this lump is an lymph node which has gotten enlarged due to some infection. Infection associated lymph node is usually movable, with smooth surface and can be painful. Cancer caused enlargement of a lymph node usually gives painless, hard and not movable lump. As you do smoke, larynx or throat cancer risk is increased. The best way to check what exactly you are dealing with, is to perform soft tissues ultrasound of this area and have biopsy of this lymph node. Hope this will help. Regards.