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What to do about neck masses

Neck masses in adults

Thinking back to most doctor’s visits, the doctor would always check the neck area for swelling and inflammation as it is often indicative of disease. If a noticeable mass is growing on the neck, it is cause for concern whether it’s something seen or felt as some masses may protrude more than others. On-going symptoms of possible neck masses vary, but patients should seek a doctor’s advice on how best to proceed before jumping to any conclusions

The Breathe Clear Institute has years of experience diagnosing and treating neck masses of all severity. Enlarged lymph nodes, cysts, or lesions on the thyroid or salivary glands are all considered part of any ENT practice. 

Symptoms and evaluation  

Symptoms will vary depending on where the mass is located, what it’s made of, and eventual diagnosis. They may include but are not limited to the below list.

  • Protruding mass on the neck
  • Changes in voice 
  • Difficulty swallowing 
  • Sore throat
  • Swollen tonsils 
  • Problems sleeping 
  • Changes in breathing 
  • Unintentional weight loss 
  • Fatigue 
  • Fever

If someone is experiencing any or all of these symptoms, please make an appointment immediately. Once in the office, the doctor will evaluate your neck mass to determine next steps and proceed with a diagnosis. 

If the mass is the site of inflammation or infection, patients will move forward with antibiotic treatments. If the neck mass persists as a local recurrence within the glands, a biopsy will be taken. Biopsies will determine if a mass is malignant or benign. If further investigation is needed, the doctor will order scans of the neck area. From there, it will be decided whether or not a patient must undergo surgery. 

Peace of mind with a diagnosis and plan of actions are our priority, and we pride ourselves on using minimally invasive procedures whenever possible. There are, however, instances where more invasive surgeries are necessary.

Treatment and management

If a neck mass needs to be removed surgically, the operation will take place either in our offices or at a nearby operating room depending on the diagnosis. A comprehensive evaluation of the surgically removed mass will be sent to the lab in order to determine next steps in treatment.

Be sure to ask the doctor about specific aftercare protocol for which surgery is performed. All patients should expect around a month-long recovery process and expectations of light activity during that time. Patients can expect pain management prescriptions to help with the healing process, and follow-up appointments will be made to monitor the situation. We want you to feel better while treating the disease, and also make your neck look aesthetically better in the process. 

Concerned about a mass on your neck? Schedule an appointment with Breathe Clear Institute

Neck masses should be immediately attended to, so please make an appointment to see us as soon as possible. It’s also best to take on symptoms when they first start in order to avoid any more severe symptoms and diagnoses down the road. Either way, we are here for you.

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