What Causes Swelling On Left Side Of Neck?

Posted on Sun, 18 Jan 2015

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

Sun, 18 Jan 2015 Answered on

Thu, 5 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : my grandson has swelling left neck no pain traveling down ward

heat not working swelling is getting worse no pain no other symptons

Answered by Dr. Naveen (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Acute lymphadenitis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query.

Most of the swellings in the neck are the enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are like policemen in the body. They get enlarged when there is any on-going infection or inflammation in the surrounding region. I presume your grandson is having an enlarged lymph node.

If you can send us a photo of the location of the swelling, it will guide us to help you in a better way.

Secondly, your grandson may require ultrasound of the neck done to assess the nature of the swelling. Depending upon the reports further management can be planned.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll 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 (19 minutes later)

he is going to er swelling increasing seems to go from cavicle to left side of neck towards sckull.

Answered by Dr. Naveen (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Branch cleft cyst needs to be ruled out...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back.

With the present set of description given by you, the swelling could be a branchial cleft cyst, which is commonly seen in teenage. It's a wise decision to take him to ER and get examined.

I wish him good health.

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

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