Lump at base of skull

I've got a lump comeup on left side of the base of skull (top back of neck) get shooting pain up into my head and down into shoulder blade when I move certain ways,  I have also been going dizzy when i get up alot over pass week or so. And headaches regular over past few weeks. I just worry coz I lost my mum to cancer she had it a few times over ten years. Do I need to be concerned?

Thanks Elaine

  • Hello and thank you for your enquiry.

    Whenever anyone contacts us with something that is worrying them we always suggest they see their GP and get checked out to be on the safe side. But I don’t think you need to be overly concerned as any cancer would be unlikely overall.

    I can't tell you what is causing your symptoms, but anything serious would be unlikely. As a general rule cancer is more common in older people (above 60) so another medical explanation is much more likely. It is tempting to link all symptoms together, but they are often not linked at all. Your GP can assess you. Neck and shoulder muscle strain can cause these symptoms. Ask your GP about some physiotherapy advice on exercises to strengthen muscles. 

    There is good information here, 

    www.nhs.uk/.../

    www.nhs.uk/.../

    Try and not over worry, and don't Google as this rarely helps, and only tends to increase overall anxiety about one's health. 

    I hope that this reply helps.

    Best wishes,

    Vanda