Abdominal Lumps: When to See a Doctor

Abdominal mass

Hello, I would like to ask about a hard lump under the skin on the right side of my abdomen near the navel, which is less than 1 cm in size, painless, and appears slightly greenish when illuminated.
There is also a less noticeable hard lump on the left side that is not easily seen.
What could these symptoms indicate, and should I see a doctor? Is it better to go to a clinic or a hospital? Thank you.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/06

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Lin / 21 years old / Female It is not possible to infer your condition from the text alone; it is recommended to see a general surgeon.
If you are concerned due to the pandemic, you can first self-monitor for the following changes: 1.
Increase in size 2.
Hardening 3.
Change in color.
If there are no changes, you can wait a bit longer before seeing a doctor.
However, if there are changes, it is necessary to consider seeing a physician sooner.
Wishing you safety and health, Taoyuan Hospital, Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong.

Reply Date: 2022/05/06

More Info

When it comes to discovering a lump in the abdominal area, especially near the navel, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and seek medical advice. The presence of a small, hard lump under the skin, particularly one that is less than 1 cm in size and does not cause pain, can be attributed to various conditions. These may range from benign issues such as lipomas (fatty tumors) or cysts to more concerning conditions that require further evaluation.

Given that you mentioned the lump appears slightly greenish when illuminated, this could suggest the presence of a cyst or an abscess, which may contain fluid or pus. However, without additional symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, or changes in bowel habits, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. Nonetheless, it is crucial to monitor the lump for any changes in size, shape, or associated symptoms.

In terms of whether to visit a clinic or a hospital, it generally depends on the availability of healthcare services in your area and the urgency of your situation. If you have a primary care physician or a local clinic that you trust, starting there can be a good option. They can perform an initial assessment and determine if further imaging or specialist referral is necessary. If the lump changes or if you develop additional symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, or gastrointestinal issues, it would be prudent to seek care at a hospital or urgent care facility.

In the context of your age and medical history, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you have any underlying health conditions or if you are experiencing anxiety about the lump, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional sooner rather than later. They can provide a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the lump.

In summary, while a small, painless lump may not seem urgent, it is wise to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional. Whether you choose to visit a clinic or a hospital, ensure that you communicate all relevant details about your health history and any changes you have noticed. Early evaluation can lead to peace of mind and appropriate management if necessary.

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