In general, if you have noticed a new growth or lump on or underneath the surface of the skin, it is a good idea to get it checked out & ensure that there is nothing that needs to be treated.
Most lumps & bumps are harmless but it is always best to get a medical opinion.
Lumps & swellings that appear in specific areas of the body also have different causes:
- On the face, it could be mumps, allergic reactions, or a dental issue
- On the neck or throat, it could be a swollen gland or goitre
- Breast, armpit or testicular lumps need to be carefully monitored, as often they are just cysts or lipomas but of course, in some cases can indicate skin cancer
- Hands & wrists can be prone to ganglion cysts, as can shoulders, which may also develop lipomas
Causes
Some of the more common skin conditions that can lead to bumps on the surface of the skin include:
- Cysts
- Folliculitis
- Dermatofibromas
- Lipomas
- Cherry angioma
- Neurofibroma
- Keratosis pilaris
What to do next?
Please give us a call during office hours, or use our online booking form to make your appointment to get checked by a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all lumps dangerous?
Most lumps are harmless, such as cysts or lipomas (fatty lumps). However, some lumps can be signs of infection, inflammation, or, rarely, cancer. It’s important to have any new or changing lump checked by a doctor.
When should I be concerned about a lump?
Seek medical advice if a lump is growing quickly, painful or tender, hard or irregular in shape, associated with skin changes such as redness or ulceration, or located in areas like the breast, neck, or testicles.
Can lifestyle or diet affect lumps?
Most lumps are not caused by lifestyle factors. However, maintaining a healthy weight and managing infections may reduce certain types of lumps, such as fatty deposits or abscesses.
Can lumps appear anywhere on the body?
Yes, lumps can develop in almost any part of the body, including the neck, armpits, arms, legs, back, chest, or abdomen.
Are lumps the same as swollen lymph nodes?
Not always. Swollen lymph nodes are a type of lump that usually occur in response to infection or inflammation. Other lumps may be cysts, lipomas, or more serious growths.
