Small Bump in My Neck
Hello everyone, I’m an 18-year-old female, and I’ve recently begun experiencing discomfort in my neck, particularly when I look straight up or down, as well as during certain movements. There’s a lump about the size of a pea that I’ve felt on the right side, just above my Adam’s apple (though I’m unsure if that’s applicable to girls). I can’t share a picture, but it’s not visible externally; however, I can definitely feel it and it’s somewhat tender when touched. While it’s not extremely painful, there is a slight discomfort. Should I be concerned about this? I have a doctor's appointment in a week—if the lump is still present, should I bring it up during my visit?
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 7:00:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a new bump or lump, especially when accompanied by discomfort. Here's a breakdown of what you should know and what actions to consider.
Main Points:
- You have a lump in your neck that is tender and causing discomfort.
- It's wise to monitor the lump, and discussing it during your upcoming doctor's appointment is essential.
Explanation:
The bump you described could be a lymph node, which can often become swollen in response to infections or inflammation nearby (like a cold or sore throat). Other possibilities include benign conditions such as cysts or muscle strain-related issues due to neck movement. While many causes are harmless, it's important to monitor the lump and your symptoms for any changes.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in size, tenderness, or new symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain. This information can be valuable for your doctor.
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Gentle Range of Motion: To alleviate discomfort, try gentle neck stretches. Move your neck slowly up and down, and side-to-side to see if it eases the discomfort without forcing movement that causes pain.
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Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the dosage recommendations on the label.
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Keep Your Appointment: Bring up the lump during your appointment. It's important to provide your doctor with comprehensive information about how long it's been there, any changes, and the symptoms you're experiencing, including the discomfort during movement.
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Stay Calm: While it’s easy to feel anxious about new symptoms, remember that many lumps are benign. Your doctor will help determine the best course of action based on their examination and any necessary tests.
Please reach out if you have any questions or need more information before your appointment.
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