A lump under the chin is a small swelling or bump that appears on the underside of the jaw or neck. It can be big or small, and might feel hard or soft. It can happen because of things like infections, inflammation, cysts, or even cancer. It’s important to see a doctor to find out the cause and get the right treatment.
Causes of a Lump Under the Chin
There are several possible causes of a lump under the chin:
- Infection: A lump under the chin can be caused by an infection, such as an abscess or cellulitis. These types of infections are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness, warmth, and pain in the area.
- Inflammation: Inflammation, such as that caused by a swollen lymph node, can also cause a lump under the chin. Lymph nodes can become inflamed in response to an infection or other type of illness.
- Cysts: Cysts are non-cancerous, closed pockets of tissue that can contain fluid, air, or other substances. They can occur anywhere in the body, including under the chin.
- Cancer: A lump under the chin can be a sign of cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma or a lymphoma. However, it is important to note that most lumps under the chin are not cancerous.
Symptoms of a Lump
Possible symptoms of a lump under the chin may include:
- Swelling: The lump may be visible as a swelling or protuberance on the underside of the jaw or neck.
- Tenderness: Pressure applied to the lump may cause tenderness or pain.
- Difficulty swallowing: In some cases, a lump under the chin may cause difficulty swallowing or a feeling of a lump in the throat.
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Diagnosis of a Lump Under the Chin
To diagnose the cause, a medical professional will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend one or more of the following tests:
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can help to visualize the inside of the body and provide more information about the lump.
- Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lump and examining it under a microscope to determine the cause. A medical professional may perform a biopsy of the lump by using a needle or by surgically removing a piece of it.
Treatment Options
Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause of the lump. Some possible treatment options may include:
- Medication: If an infection, inflammation, or other medical condition causes the lump, a medical professional may prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause.
- Drainage: If the lump is an abscess or a cyst, it may be necessary to drain the fluid or pus to reduce swelling and improve healing. A medical professional can typically perform this procedure using a needle or through surgery.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a lump under the chin, particularly if it is cancerous or causing other problems.
Conclusion
A lump under the chin can be caused by things like infections, swelling, cysts, or even cancer. Common signs include swelling, tenderness, and trouble swallowing.
To figure out what’s causing it, a doctor will usually check it by doing an exam and might suggest tests like scans, a sample of tissue, or other checks. The treatment depends on what’s causing the lump and could include medicine, draining, surgery, or other options.
