Lump on Back of Neck

The word 'lump' basically means an elevated structure that may occur in any part of the body. It is a type of localized enlargement, or an abnormal protrusion of the skin. Lump on back of neck is certainly an unwelcome change as it interferes with the normal movement of the neck. Neck stiffness is commonly associated with this type of lump. Usually the lump hurts and causes sharp shooting pain when touched. However, in some cases, the protrusion is painless and does not hinder the day-to-day activities of the person. The lumps that usually appear on the back of neck are bean-shaped and about the size of a pea.

Causes

If this abnormal enlargement on neck, is a source of constant burning sensation, don't ignore it. Finding the cause of this neck problem is important to get rid of the discomfort associated with it. Some of the most common causes are given below:

Injury to the Tendon or the Muscles: A torn or a damaged tendon (tissues that join the muscles with the bones) can be one of the reasons behind the occurrence of swollen mass of tissue of the neck. The muscles and tendons are responsible for giving the body a proper shape. This is true as long as the muscles remain in their original position. However, any injury that leads to torn or ruptured muscle or tendon displaces it from its normal position, which then forms a lump. So, one can say that 'lump' formation indicates that the associated muscles or tendons are badly affected. The damaged part of the muscle protrudes outwards, forming a large lump. Muscle tear inside the neck can also cause internal bleeding, depending upon the severity of the injury. Strenuous exercises for a long time or trauma such as an accident are some of the factors that can cause muscle tear.

Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swollen lymph nodes is another factor that could bring this unwanted protrusion on back of neck. As we all know, the lymphatic system (a part of the immune system) is a dense interconnected network of vessels that circulate a fluid known as lymph, throughout the body. The fluid (lymph) is primarily made up of white blood cells (lymphocytes) that protect the body against various infections. The lymph nodes (components of the immune system) are bean-shaped structures, consisting mainly of lymphatic tissues that occur in different parts of the body including the neck, underarm, groin and the abdomen.

Also known as the lymph glands, the lymph nodes filter the lymph fluid when it passes through them, thereby removing bacteria and other impurities, which get collected in these lymph nodes. As lymph nodes also produce white blood cells, the accumulated bacteria in the lymph nodes are destroyed and are eventually disposed off through the urinary bladder. However, if bacteria accumulate in large numbers in the lymph nodes, it can trigger a localized infection in these parts. This may lead to swelling of the lymph nodes. Thus, these enlarged nodes can cause lump behind the neck.

Salivary Gland Swelling: When the gland that makes saliva gets irritated and swollen, localized swelling in the front or back portion of the neck is bound to occur. A lingering bad taste in mouth, dry mouth causing bad breath and pain while opening mouth are some of the other signs of inflamed salivary gland. It is observed that the lump due to salivary gland disorders remains stationary while swallowing food.

Thyroiditis: Thyroiditis is a medical term commonly used to describe a swollen thyroid gland. This butterfly shaped gland found in the neck area, is located just below the Adam's apple surrounding the windpipe. Thyroiditis is the result of abnormal immune response; meaning the immune system invades the healthy tissues of the thyroid gland instead of harmful microbes. Inflammation of thyroiditis can lead to the development of lump in the front or back side of the neck. People with thyroiditis often experience pain while swallowing and more importantly the lump that is formed moves every time, food is pushed down the throat.

Tonsillitis: Touch the back side of neck of tonsillitis patients and you will definitely feel a lump. Tonsillitis marked by inflammation of the tonsils and trouble swallowing is common during childhood. No wonder, lump on back of neck in children is often attributed to tonsillitis. As we all know, tonsil is a ball-shaped mass of tissue that sits at the back of the throat, near the rear end of the tongue. The tonsils catch and destroy harmful pathogens that try to enter the body during inhalation. However, these glandular tissues that defend the body against germs can also get infected causing inflammation. The enlarged tonsils trigger swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck area. Thus, in tonsillitis,the lumps that we perceive at the back of the neck are nothing but protruding lymph nodes.

Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a type of cancer of the lymphatic system. In this condition, the white blood cells in the fluid (lymph) begin to multiply uncontrollably. As the cancerous cells grow in large number they accumulate in one of many lymph nodes, forming a tumor. This tumor is seen as bulged out mass on the skin. When the lymph node in the neck is affected, a hard mass exactly behind the neck is observed.

Proper diagnosis is the key to eliminate this protruding mass. In most cases, swelling in the neck is the result of a pulled muscle. Application of ice and taking adequate rest can help relieve pain and discomfort. However, unexplained persistent swelling, that is seen in the form of lump requires consultation with a doctor and the condition needs to be treated immediately to prevent further complications