26-Year-Old with Swollen Lumps Near Ear and Collarbone Concerns
I am a 26-year-old female, standing at 5’6" and weighing approximately 70 kg, living in Australia and a smoker. I am not on any medications and do not have any known health issues. Over the past week or two, I have discovered hard, swollen lumps beneath my ears close to my jawline on both sides of my face. One lump is significantly larger than the other and is visibly protruding. Additionally, I have noticed a new lump that has appeared on my inner collarbone on one side. Should I seek medical attention for these lumps? My partner has pointed out that the larger lump seems to have a graze on its surface. I would appreciate any guidance on this matter. Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 7:20:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the swollen lumps you’ve noticed near your ears and collarbone. Lumps in these areas can have various causes, including infections, benign growths, or, in some cases, more serious conditions. Since you mentioned a graze on the larger lump, this could indicate an infection or reaction, which may require medical attention.
Main Points:
- Lumps may indicate an infection or benign condition.
- Observing changes is critical, especially with the graze on the larger lump.
Explanation:
Swollen lumps, or lymph nodes, can become enlarged in response to infections or other stimuli. The area around your jawline, for example, is where lymph nodes can swell due to dental issues, throat infections, or other localized infections. The additional lump near your collarbone may be related or an independent issue. The presence of a graze suggests there could be an infection or irritation there.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor the Lumps:
- Keep an eye on the lumps for any changes, such as increased size, color changes, or pain.
- Note any other symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, or changes in appetite.
-
Self-Care Measures:
- Avoid touching or manipulating the lumps to prevent irritation or spreading an infection.
- Maintain good hygiene by keeping the area clean.
-
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- If you notice increased redness, warmth, or swelling around the lumps.
- If the lumps become painful or if you develop fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms.
- Since one lump has a graze, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider sooner rather than later to assess whether it requires treatment or further investigation.
It's important to listen to your body, and don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional to discuss your specific concerns further. Take care, and I hope you find resolution soon!
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