What Causes Movable Lump On Left Side Of Neck?

Posted on Mon, 15 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 15 Sep 2014 Answered on

Wed, 8 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a small movable lump on the left side of my neck where you can feel my heart rate I can feel that same thing on my right side of my neck but it doesn't seem as swollen or big on my left side? What do you think it could be? And should I be worried?

Answered by Dr. Naveen (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Enlarged lymph nodes...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

The small lump like structure over either side of the neck is the lymph node.

Lymph nodes are like policemen in the body, which props up when there is an active underlying infection. These are relatively harmless swellings.

During acute episodes of the infection, they swell up causing pain and fever. Once, the infection is taken care of with an appropriate antibiotic, the swelling recedes. In some cases, due to recurrent infection the swelling may not completely disappear and this is perfectly normal.

The inequality in the size of the nodes is because of the variations in the severity of infection. And, this again is perfectly normal.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Naveen (31 minutes later)

what kinda medication do I need to take to clear this up?

Answered by Dr. Naveen (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Oral antibiotics can be tried...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

You can try oral antibiotics such as a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid or cefuroxime.

Wish you good luck and good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T