a Painful Bump on the Neck: Possible Causes and Solutions

There is a bump resembling a pimple located about five centimeters below the ear on the neck?

Hello Dr.
Wu: About five or six days ago, I noticed a bump on my neck that resembles an acne lesion, which is red, swollen, and painful.
It is located approximately five centimeters below my left earlobe (on the left side of my neck).
When I touch and press it, I can feel a swollen mass inside, about the size of a grain of rice, maybe slightly larger.
However, after observing it for five or six days, today I noticed that the color has gradually faded, resembling the appearance of a healing acne lesion, and it is not as red anymore.
Pressing it does not cause pain, but there is still a swollen mass inside that has not resolved.
Since I have stubble on my neck, I shave every two to three days with a manual razor, and after shaving, my neck tends to be somewhat sensitive.
I am wondering if frequent shaving could be affecting the inflammation of the hair follicles.
Is this inflammation of a lymph node or a lymph gland? I would appreciate your help in clarifying this for me.
Thank you! Here is the link to a photo I took of the symptoms: http://imgbox.com/tQKHhAPl

Xiao Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/31

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Medical regulations state that "physicians must personally examine patients before providing treatment or prescribing medication," and therefore, online diagnosis is not permitted.
If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2016/08/31

More Info

When it comes to understanding a painful bump on the neck, particularly one that resembles an acne lesion and is located near the left ear, there are several potential causes to consider. Based on your description, it sounds like you have developed a localized swelling that has changed in appearance over the past few days. The fact that it has become less red and painful suggests that it may be resolving on its own, but it is still important to understand what might be happening.

One possibility is that this bump could be a sebaceous cyst, which is a common type of cyst that forms when a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells. These cysts can become inflamed and painful, especially if they become infected. The fact that you mentioned using a razor on your neck could potentially irritate the area, leading to inflammation or infection of the follicle.

Another possibility is that the bump is related to lymphadenopathy, which refers to swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can swell in response to infection, inflammation, or other stimuli in the body. If you have had a recent cold or infection, it is possible that your lymph nodes are reacting to that. The location of the bump, being near the ear and neck, aligns with common lymph node locations.

Additionally, the bump could be a result of folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles often caused by bacterial or fungal infections. This condition can occur after shaving, particularly if the skin is irritated or if bacteria are introduced through the process.

Given that the bump has decreased in redness and pain, this is a positive sign that it may be healing. However, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the bump persists, increases in size, or becomes painful again, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy if necessary to rule out other conditions.

In terms of management, if the bump is indeed a sebaceous cyst or folliculitis, warm compresses can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage. Avoiding further irritation from shaving or other activities that may aggravate the area is also advisable. If you suspect an infection, over-the-counter topical antibiotics may be beneficial, but it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while the bump on your neck may be a benign condition such as a sebaceous cyst or swollen lymph node, it is essential to keep an eye on it and seek medical advice if it does not improve or worsens. Proper hygiene, gentle care of the area, and avoiding irritation will help in the healing process. Always prioritize consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.

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