Lump in neck that has been there nearly a year

Hi, I have a lump on the right side of my neck closer to the top and back, I didn't notice it untill my mum pointed it out when she seen it protruding out my skin. Within a few weeks I was getting a few symptoms, such as awful night sweats 2-3 times a week (to the point I was waking up and my bed sheets were soaking and my hair was dripping wet), constantly fatigued and no energy, was eating a lot and actually loosing weight (around a stone), neck spasms that would burn for 10 mins afterwards, and a achey neck on the side of the lump. After these I made an appointment with my gp who referred me to the hospital for an ultrasound. The dr at the hospital felt the lump and said it isn't a cyst as it can't be moved around, and it was a growth that was growing in my trapezius muscle. He proceeded with the ultrasound and said it was a swollen lymph node and that he isn't worried and he will send my scans over to the gp and nothing else would be done further unless it caused me hassle. Anyways, around 6 weeks after this, I got a letter through the door saying I was getting referred for more tests such as another ultrasound, bloods, urine test and electrolyte tests and that a date would be sent out soon on when to attend. This was around 4 month ago and I've heard nothing and im still waiting on a date. The symptoms are getting worse and the waiting around is making me anxious - does this sound like something to worry about as I don't think a lymph node would cause all of this?

  • Hi Kait,

    If your symptoms are getting worse, I would definitely chase up the tests (today) and also call your gp explain your symptoms are getting worse and hopefully they can chase up for you too.  It's just better to be on the safe side, do not leave it any longer. I do not want to worry you, but four months is a long time to wait if your symptoms are not getting any better.  Be reassured that your GP said it Is nothing to worry about, but I would still chase up. Xx 

  • Hello and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and I can appreciate why you might be feeling a bit confused with what is happening.

    While I cannot say why you have been asked to have these investigations with any certainty, one of reasons this has happened could be because the actual written report (this comes in a few weeks after the scan was done) recommended further tests. All imaging investigations such as ultrasound scans will be reported by a specialist doctor (radiologist) who will provide a written report. This does not mean you were given the wrong information at the time of your scan. 

    Because it is now 4 months and you still have not heard anything about getting these tests done I also think you need to chase this up. On the letter there might be a telephone number (sometimes this is on the top right hand side) of the department that is dealing with you.  If there is, call it, and you might be able to find out what is happening. If this does not help then do contact your GP, your GP may also have the letter you got and may be able to help. If however you still need help to sort this out then do contact the hospital's Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS) who can find out what is happening for you.

    I am sorry you are going through this and while I know that this could be worrying for you, I do need to say that this does not necessarily mean you have anything serious the matter such as cancer. 

    I hope you have support from close family and friends and that you know more about your situation soon. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline