Causes of neck swelling: It’s not always your thyroid
Neck swellings can arise from various causes, not just thyroid issues. They may result from cysts, infections, lipomas, aneurysms, or congenital abnormalities. Symptoms like pain, size, and movement help identify the cause. Medical evaluation is essential to rule out complications and guide appropriate treatment, including surgery or medication.
Overview of neck swellings A swelling in the neck may be seen due to multiple reasons, and not just thyroid. Swelling is a common symptom of lesions in the neck, and those with a long history may suggest a benign etiology. Associated pain is often enquired into, as inflammatory swellings are mostly painful. A swelling seen during meals may be due to salivary gland obstruction. (Image : Canva)
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Definition of bronchial cleft cyst A bronchial cleft cyst is a neck mass that is present since birth (congenital). They may be observed at any age, but are often seen in children. Though are usually not cancerous, they may cause some symptoms by pressing on nearby structures like nerves or blood vessels. (Image : Canva)
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What is dermoid cyst When tissue begins collecting under the skin, it can lead to the formation of a dermoid cyst. Such cysts may comprise of hair, teeth or even nerves, and usually appear at birth. They may seem like a tumour at first glance, but they are not ordinarily harmful. Surgery may be required as it does not go away by itself. (Image : Canva)
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What is carotid artery A number of arteries are present in the neck, of which one of the important ones is the carotid artery. A carotid artery aneurysm refers to a bulge in this blood vessel. A common cause for this is atherosclerosis (build-up of fats and cholesterol in the arterial walls). While some people may not have any symptoms, others may feel a throbbing lump. (Image : Canva)
Thyroglossal duct cyst Certain types of cysts like the thyroglossal duct cysts are present since birth, and are often found in children, who are less than ten years of age. These can be differentiated from a thyroid swelling by asking the affected individual to stick their tongue out. If the swelling moves with the protrusion of the tongue, it is likely the thyroglossal cyst and not a thyroid swelling. (Image : Canva)
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Enlarged lymph nodes Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck may be seen due to various factors, and one of the most causes is infection. The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body’s immune system, and the nodes are a part of this system as well. Tuberculosis may also lead to enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. (Image : Canva)
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Definition of ludwig’s angina Ludwig’s angina is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by certain bacteria that causes inflammation in the floor of the mouth and the neck. It can occur after a history of infection in the roots of teeth, or a mouth injury. Airway protection is important, and a surgery may be necessary. (Image : Canva)
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Lipoma A benign, fatty tumour known as a lipoma may also develop in the neck. It can cause some discomfort and cosmetic concerns. Lipomas are slow-growing, and ordinarily painless, but may turn painful if they begin to press on some vessels or nerves in the neck region. (Image : Canva)
What is goitre An abnormal enlargement of the butterfly-shaped gland (the thyroid gland) present in the anterior part of the neck is called goitre. It may be seen due to iodine deficiency or due to autoimmune disease that cause such increase in the size of this gland. The thyroid hormone levels must be checked, as they may point towards the diagnosis. (Image : Canva)
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Medical evaluation of neck swelling Any swelling in the neck must be checked by the healthcare professional. Hard, fast-growing masses or slow-growing benign tumours, both require a medical opinion to rule out chances of complications. The healthcare provider may advise necessary tests to find the cause. (Image : Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
