Multiple Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Multiple Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Zhihao： 1. This should be a benign tumor. 2. I believe it has existed for a while, but was discovered after the car accident. Of course, further examination is needed to confirm. 3. It is certainly a tumor, but most likely benign. 4. Perhaps! If yo

Multiple hard masses, should I go to the hospital for an examination immediately?

Hello, attending physician.
My right palm is facing up, and the area I'm referring to is not the biceps...
I'm sorry, I don't know the name of this area.
There is a tumor about the length of two "fingers" combined, which has not changed for several months, is not painful, and feels slightly sensitive when pressed.
This should be a benign tumor, right? Such as a fibroma or lipoma?
After the car accident, I noticed slight lower back pain a few days later, and there is a hard lump about the size of a "thumb" on the right side of my lower back that is sore when pressed.
Is this an injury-related issue?
I also discovered a similar hard lump about the size of half a thumb on the left side of my lower back before the car accident.
This shouldn't be a tumor, right?
Can testicular tumors be felt? Because I mistakenly thought the epididymis was a tumor.

Chen Zhihao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/20

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Zhihao: 1.
This should be a benign tumor.
2.
I believe it has existed for a while, but was discovered after the car accident.
Of course, further examination is needed to confirm.
3.
It is certainly a tumor, but most likely benign.
4.
Perhaps! If you are concerned, I still recommend that you consult a professional physician for evaluation.
Tumors can be chronic conditions, so there is no need for immediate action, but it is advisable to get it checked.
Thank you for your letter.
Sincerely, Chen Sirong.

Reply Date: 2013/04/20

More Info

When it comes to understanding multiple lumps or masses in the body, it's essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, you have several lumps in different areas, and it's crucial to evaluate each one carefully.

1. Lump on the Hand: You mentioned a lump on your hand that has not changed in size over several months and is not painful. This could indeed be a benign tumor, such as a fibroma or lipoma. Fibromas are benign tumors made up of fibrous or connective tissue, while lipomas are composed of fat tissue. Both are generally harmless and often do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. However, it's always a good idea to have any new or persistent lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any other conditions.

2. Lump on the Right Side of the Waist: The lump you discovered after a car accident, which is painful when pressed, could be a result of trauma. This could be a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) or a muscle strain leading to swelling. If the lump is painful and was associated with an injury, it is advisable to consult a doctor, especially if the pain persists or worsens. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to assess the nature of the lump.

3. Lump on the Left Side of the Waist: Similar to the lump on the right side, the lump on the left side that you discovered before the accident may not necessarily be a tumor. It could be a benign condition, such as a lipoma or a cyst. However, since it is also a new finding, it is prudent to have it evaluated by a healthcare provider to ensure it is not something more serious.

4. Testicular Lump: Regarding your concern about a lump in the testicular area, it is essential to differentiate between normal anatomical structures and potential pathological conditions. The epididymis, which is located at the back of the testicle, can sometimes be mistaken for a lump or tumor. However, any new lump in the testicular area should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Testicular tumors can be palpable, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment. If you have any doubts or concerns about a lump in this area, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if:
- Any lump changes in size, shape, or color.

- You experience pain, discomfort, or other symptoms associated with the lumps.

- You notice new lumps that appear suddenly.

- You have any concerns about the nature of the lumps, especially in sensitive areas like the testicles.

In summary, while many lumps can be benign and harmless, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Consulting with a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and possibly imaging studies can provide peace of mind and ensure that any serious conditions are ruled out. Regular check-ups and being proactive about your health are key to maintaining well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Multiple Lumps: What You Need to Know Before Seeing a Doctor

Hello Doctor: I have many small hard lumps on my body that started to appear about seven or eight years ago. These lumps are located on my neck, chest, side of the chest, epigastric area, waist, hands, and feet. I can feel at least a dozen of them; some are painful while others a...

Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello! Based on your description, it is most likely a benign lipoma. This is not considered a rare condition and may not necessarily require treatment. For peace of mind and to be on the safe side, you can still visit a hospital for evaluation. Generally speaking, if it is a beni...

Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. I noticed a lump about 5-6 centimeters in size in my groin area while showering over the past two days. It is painful when pressed and also hurts when sitting in a chair. The lump is movable from side to side. Should I seek medical attention immediately? If so, sho...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Xiao Fei / 37 years old / Male 1. Should I seek medical attention immediately? A: Yes, due to the presence of a 5-6 cm mass and associated pain, it should be addressed as soon as possible. 2. Should I go directly to the oncology department or first to general surgery? A: You ...

Understanding Tumors: When to Seek Surgical Consultation for Growths

I have developed two hard lumps on my hand, and they seem to be getting larger. What should I do? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

Dr. Hou Yongcheng reply Surgery
Any abnormal protruding tissue on any part of the body should be evaluated by a physician at a hospital, seeking surgical assistance.

Multiple Lumps Underarms: Should You Worry About Breast Cancer?

There are multiple lumps in both armpits (3 to 4 lumps on each side) that have persisted for over one to two years. Since there is no pain and no significant increase in size, I haven't paid much attention to them. The lumps vary in size, with the larger ones being close to ...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Xyl, 22 years old, female. 1. Recently concerned whether it might be a sign of breast cancer? A: It has been persistent for more than a year or two, without significant enlargement or changes in color. Based on your description, there should be no need for concern. 2. If fur...