Neck lump worry

Hello, I recently found a small lump in my neck last week. I'm at uni at the moment and trying to concentrate on that but I have horrific health anxiety and cancer is one of my biggest fears. It's about the size of a grape, very moveable and only hurts when I touch it. I had a severe UTI recently as well as being prone to tonsilitis (which I haven't had since the summer), both of which I've needed antibiotics for. I also have jaw and ear pain sometimes as well as pains elsewhere in my neck. I try not to fiddle with it but it's so difficult! I have no other symptoms (night sweats, itching, fatigue, weight loss) but was wondering if anyone is in the same boat and have no explanation for it (no obvious cause)??? Am going to see a doctor next week but if anyone could help/keep my mind at ease and have experienced similar that would be great to know!!

Thanks so much x

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    I’m sorry you are worried about a swollen lymph gland/lump. Unfortunately, we are not able to diagnose or say what the matter is, on this forum. Try not to worry lumps and bumps can appear for lots of different reasons and most of the time won't be caused by anything as serious as cancer, especially at your young age. However it is worth getting them checked out just to sure, so it would be a good idea to make an appointment to see your GP.

    Doctors are experienced at assessing symptoms and if they have concerns about your symptoms or are unsure about what the matter is they may run some further tests like an ultrasound or blood tests

    You can read more about lumps and glands here

    www.nhs.uk/.../

    www.nhs.uk/.../

    on the NHS websites but generally lymph nodes are normally swollen because of a recent viral or bacterial infection and can sometimes be felt for several months after the infection has cleared.

    Try and reduce stress, and anxiety tends to make symptoms seem much worse than they actually are. Maybe mention your anxiety to the GP and see what they suggest.

    I hope you know more about your situation soon. 

    Kind regards,

    Vanda