Neck Lump + Neck Masses in Torrance and El Segundo, CA

Neck lumps and masses are common and can develop from a wide range of causes. Some appear suddenly due to infection, while others develop more gradually.

Common causes of neck lumps and masses include:

• Swollen lymph nodes: Often caused by infections, such as colds, throat infections, mononucleosis, or tonsillitis, leading to tender or enlarged nodes in the neck
• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can form under the skin and may slowly grow over time
• Thyroid nodules: Solid or fluid-filled lumps in the thyroid gland that are usually benign but require evaluation
• Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, which may cause visible swelling and sometimes affect swallowing or breathing
• Lipomas: Soft, fatty growths beneath the skin that are typically painless unless they press on nearby structures
• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections (like mononucleosis or tonsillitis) that cause swelling, inflammation, and tenderness in the neck
• Cancer: Growths related to thyroid cancer, throat cancer, or lymphatic cancers, such as Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Some of the causes of neck lumps and masses are harmless, while others may be signs of a very serious health concern. That's why it's important to have any unexplained neck lumps examined by our experienced providers at Beach Cities ENTS. Our ENT specialists in Torrance and El Segundo, CA can diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate treatment.

Treatment for neck lumps and masses begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Your provider at Beach Cities ENTS will review your symptoms and medical history, examine your neck, and may look more closely at your throat and voice box using a small flexible scope. Depending on what they find, they might recommend additional testing, including ultrasound, a CT scan, an MRI, blood work, or throat cultures.

Once they've identified the type of mass, they'll recommend a plan of treatment based on its cause and location. Treatment for a neck lump or mass might include:

• Antibiotics or thyroid medications
• Surgical removal
• Thyroid-specific treatments, such as radioactive iodine treatment, medication, or thyroidectomy
• Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy for neck cancer

The earlier the mass is identified, the better your odds for successful treatment.

A new neck lump or mass is always worth investigating, even if it isn't causing any pain. In cases of cancer or other malignant growths, early intervention may save your life. The benefits of treatment for neck lumps and masses at our Torrance and El Segundo, CA practices include:

• Easing worry about what the lump could be
• Reducing pain, tenderness, or visible swelling in your neck
• Making it easier to swallow, speak, and move comfortably
• Preventing the lump from getting larger or more noticeable
• Addressing the problem early before it becomes more serious
• Lowering your risk of long-term throat or neck problems

Unexplained neck masses can be a cause for serious anxiety, especially when they start to interfere with your ability to swallow or speak comfortably. At Beach Cities ENTS, we provide answers and comprehensive care to help you move forward. Schedule a consultation and exam with our ENT specialists in Torrance or El Segundo, CA to have your neck lump identified and treated.