Unusual Lump on My Hand
In my previous entry, I had to remove it due to a lack of information. I'm located in the US, at 33 years old, currently medicated for depression, ADHD, and PTSD; however, I haven't taken my prescriptions in a while. Aside from having kidney cancer, I don’t have any other significant health problems. I might not be in the correct forum for this, but I've recently undergone a kidney removal surgery because of cancer, and it’s left me incredibly anxious. Generally, I've been in good health throughout my life. However, in December, I was admitted to the hospital for pancreatitis, where I was shocked to discover a 10cm tumor in my kidney. Fast forward to May, and the entire organ was surgically removed. I’m supposed to receive the pathology report later today; I realize I've been neglecting to check in on this for a while, which has certainly added to my stress. Even though I try to pretend I’m not affected by it, the concern is still there. Now onto my current issue — a small bump has appeared on my hand over the past month. It doesn’t resemble a scab or pimple; it feels solid, somewhat like a mole, with a reddish hue. Thankfully, it isn’t painful, but since it’s a recent development, I can’t shake the anxiety it’s causing. I'd appreciate any insights on whether I should be concerned about this or if I’m simply overreacting. I really don’t want to face more medical visits; I need to move forward and reclaim my life. I’ll upload some photos in the comments since I'm unsure how to do so from my phone otherwise.
Answers (1)
8/9/2025, 2:31:22 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about any changes in your body, especially after your recent surgery and health challenges. The lump you've described on your hand, although concerning given your medical history, is not uncommon and can have various causes, most of which are not serious.
Explanation
Lumps or bumps on the skin can arise from a few benign conditions, including:
- Seborrheic Keratosis: A common, harmless growth that can appear as a mole-like bump.
- Lipoma: A soft, fatty lump usually found just under the skin.
- Skin Cysts: These are small lumps filled with fluid or semi-solid material.
Given your history of cancer, I understand why this may evoke more anxiety, but remember that many skin lumps are not rapid indicators of serious issues.
Next Steps
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Monitor the Lump: Keep an eye on the lump over the next few weeks. Note any changes in size, color, or texture. If it becomes painful, itchy, or grows rapidly, pay closer attention to it.
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Practice Stress Management: Considering your recent health experiences, it may be helpful to incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle exercise to help manage anxiety.
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Consultation Planning: Although you might not want more medical visits, it might be beneficial to schedule a check-in with a healthcare provider if the lump changes or if your anxiety about it worsens. Alternatively, you might want to discuss it during your next routine visit.
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Pathology Report Discussion: Once you receive the pathology report from your kidney surgery, it could also be helpful to discuss any concerns broadly about your health. Clarity on that front may alleviate some anxiety regarding new symptoms.
Reclaiming your life after surgery is important, and staying informed about your health can help you feel more in control. If you feel overwhelmed, consider reaching out to someone you trust for support. Let me know if you'd like any more specific information or resources!
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