Neck Masses

Neck masses are lumps that are found in the neck that can vary in size and shape. Some lumps will be visible, while others will not.

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These masses can be a sign of an infection or, in more serious cases, cancer. If you begin to feel a neck mass, it is important to have it examined. Texas ENT Specialists can diagnose your neck mass and offer a comprehensive treatment plan for its cause.

Neck Mass Treatment Options

The first step in treating a neck mass is to identify the underlying cause. Your provider will ask you about your medical history when your symptoms first started and will perform a physical exam.

X-rays or other detailed tests may also be ordered to give your provider more information on the mass. The treatment for a neck mass will depend on its cause. If it has been caused by an infection, then antibiotics will be used. Antibiotics will be able to treat the infection, which in turn will help heal the mass.

If your provider thinks the mass could be cancerous, surgery may be required to remove the mass. A biopsy of the mass will then be performed to determine if it is cancerous or benign.

About Neck Masses

Neck masses can appear in varying shapes, sizes, and textures. They can be visible or invisible in the neck, soft or hard, and tender or not. In most cases, these masses are not harmful and are either caused by infections or bacteria. In some cases, they can be tumors that could be cancerous or benign, so it is important to have them properly evaluated.

Symptoms of Neck Masses

A visible neck mass
A mass that is getting larger
Vocal changes
Pain when swallowing
Difficulty swallowing
Ear pain
Difficulty hearing
Unexplained weight loss
High fever

About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists is a multi-location ENT provider with 15 locations across the Houston area. Since our establishment in 1997, we have offered our patients:

Personalized Treatment

We provide exceptional care that is customized to meet your unique needs.

Top-Rated Physician Network

We have an unparalleled network of highly-trained physicians who use internal collaboration to achieve the best results for patients.

Centers of Excellence

Each of our locations is held to the same high standards we hold for our care, ensuring you have a seamless experience.

Continuity of Care

We work with you to achieve long-term relief, no matter how long it takes us to get there.

A Neck Mass May Occur With:

Sinus infection
Ear infection
Strep throat
Tonsillitis
Mumps
Thyroid disorders
Autoimmune diseases
Certain cancers

Neck Masses FAQ's

When should I visit a doctor for a neck mass?

If you have a neck mass that has lasted longer than 2-3 weeks, you should visit a provider to have it examined. It’s always essential to have a neck mass examined to rule out cancer or other underlying conditions that may be serious.

Is a neck mass always cancerous?

No. In many cases, neck masses are not cancerous and are just present due to an infection. Our staff can provide testing to determine if a mass is cancerous and offer you a treatment path for either option.

Are neck masses always visible?

No. Some masses are very small and will not be visible, while others are large and quite visible. Testing and imaging can be performed to locate these types of masses.