Help Needed: Mysterious Bump on My Leg
I'm a 17-year-old male, and I need some guidance regarding a peculiar bump on my leg. I currently take buspirone and bupropion, and I occasionally smoke marijuana. I stand at 5'9" and weigh just under 190 pounds. About six weeks ago, I noticed this bump forming on the front right side of my shin, which only becomes visible when I’m standing. When I press on it, it indents but returns to its normal flat state once I stop. The bump is soft and perfectly circular in shape. I consulted my primary care physician, who examined it and deemed it not concerning but advised that I should consider getting an ultrasound if it increased in size. Fortunately, I haven’t experienced any pain in that area, and I maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. The only notable change I’ve made recently is that I began working out at a commercial gym, focusing on weightlifting in addition to my existing cardio routine around the same time the bump surfaced. My physique is naturally bulkier and muscular, and the bump hasn’t changed in size since its initial appearance. I’m starting to feel anxious about it. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! I'll share a picture in the comments for reference.
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 5:10:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about a new bump, especially when it's in a noticeable area like your leg. The good news is that you’ve already seen a physician who has evaluated the bump and deemed it not concerning. Let's go over what you described and what you can do next.
Main Points:
- The bump is soft, circular, changes with pressure, and hasn’t increased in size or caused pain.
- While your physician has reassured you, monitoring any changes is an important next step.
Explanation:
Based on your description, the bump could be a benign condition like a lipoma (a fatty growth) or a dermatofibroma (a harmless fibrous skin growth). These types of lumps are common, don't usually indicate any serious health issues, especially when they are painless and stable.
Since you've started a more intensive workout regimen, it’s also possible that the bump could be related to increased muscle activity or a minor injury that resulted in localized swelling. However, as your physician suggested, it’s wise to monitor the bump's behavior — if it changes in size or becomes painful, those would be reasons to seek further evaluation.
Specific, Prioritized Steps:
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Monitor the Bump: Keep an eye on the bump over the next few weeks. Note any changes in size, shape, or color, or if it becomes painful.
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Avoid Irritants: Ensure that any workouts don’t stress the area unnecessarily. Be mindful of exercises that could lead to irritation or inflammation in the shin.
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Maintain Active Communication: If you notice any changes or have any new concerns, reach out to your physician for further guidance. Consider scheduling a follow-up or ultrasound if recommended by your physician.
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Stay Calm: It's important for your mental wellbeing to recognize that many bumps and lumps are benign. Engage in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga, to ease your anxiety.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or concerns about the bump or your overall health. It's always best to prioritize your peace of mind alongside physical health.
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