Tonsillar mass
I recently found two small round hard lumps near my lower jaw close to the tonsils.
They are painful to touch, but I don't feel anything when eating or swallowing.
I'm worried it might be a tumor.
Which department should I see? Would a general ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist know about this, or should I go to a larger hospital?
Niu Niu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/09
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
The tonsils are located in the throat, and the hard lump you felt is likely in the upper neck area.
You should promptly see an otolaryngologist.
I apologize for the delayed response as the system did not notify me in real-time.
Reply Date: 2011/01/09
More Info
When you discover hard lumps near your tonsils, especially if they are painful to the touch, it is understandable to feel concerned about the possibility of a serious condition, such as a tumor. In this case, the best course of action is to seek medical advice promptly.
The first step is to visit an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. ENT specialists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the head and neck, including the throat and tonsils. They will be able to perform a thorough examination of your throat and neck, assess the lumps, and determine if further investigation is necessary. This may include imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, or even a biopsy if there is a concern about malignancy.
It is important to note that while hard lumps can be alarming, they are not always indicative of cancer. There are several benign conditions that could cause lumps in this area, such as swollen lymph nodes due to infection, cysts, or even tonsilloliths (calcified debris in the tonsils). The fact that you do not experience pain while swallowing is a positive sign, but it does not eliminate the need for a professional evaluation.
If you feel that your symptoms are severe or if the lumps are rapidly changing in size, it may be advisable to go to a larger hospital or medical center where you can receive comprehensive care. In such facilities, you may have access to a multidisciplinary team that can provide a more extensive evaluation and treatment plan if necessary.
In summary, you should definitely consult with an ENT specialist regarding the hard lumps near your tonsils. They will be able to provide you with the appropriate diagnosis and treatment options. If you have any additional symptoms, such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain, make sure to mention these during your consultation, as they can provide important context for your condition. Early evaluation and intervention are key to addressing any potential issues effectively.
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