What Does A Small Lump Below The Jawline Indicate?

Posted on Wed, 2 Apr 2014

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

Wed, 2 Apr 2014 Answered on

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a small lump in my left side on my neck below the jawline. It is painful all around it.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Suggestive of lymph node enlargement Detailed Answer: hello, Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic, A lump in the neck region below the jawline is most probably due to lymph node enlargement. A clinical examination of the swelling is needed. An aspiration cytology of the swelling needs to be done. In this investigation, a needle is introduced into the lesion, the cells are aspirated and spread on glass slide. The aspirated cells are stained using appropriate stain. The stained cells are examined under the microscope. This investigation helps to determine the character of the lesion. Infections/ inflammations are most common cause of lymph node enlargement. If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer. Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (23 minutes later)

Should I be immediately concerned or can I wait and see if it is inflammation. I an planning to be gone for a week. Also would ice help?

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (20 hours later)

Brief Answer: You can wait for few days, ice can reduce pain Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome again, Yes, you can wait for few days. The lymph node can enlarge due to infection or inflammation. As the infection/ inflammation subsides, the swelling will also subside. Ice can help to relieve the pain associated with the swelling. You can take pain-killer to relieve the pain. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D