Neck Lumps
Finding a lump in your neck can be worrying. While most neck lumps are harmless, some require urgent investigation to rule out more serious causes. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we offer fast access, comprehensive assessment of neck lumps to give you answers and peace of mind as quickly as possible.
Why Neck Lumps Happen
Neck lumps can arise from many different causes, including:
Benign swellings such as cysts or lipomas
Enlarged lymph nodes from infection or inflammation
Thyroid lumps (nodules or goitres)
Salivary gland swellings
Tumours of the head and neck (less common, but important to rule out early)
Because of this wide range, a prompt and accurate diagnosis is key.
Rapid Diagnostic Pathway
We provide a streamlined service for patients with neck lumps, offering:
1. Neck Ultrasound with Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
Performed by expert radiologists.
Ultrasound provides real-time imaging of the lump.
FNA (a quick needle test) allows cells to be sent for analysis.
2. Cross-Sectional Imaging (CT or MRI)
If needed, CT or MRI scans give further detail about deeper neck lumps or more complex cases.
3. Fast-Track Biopsy
In certain situations, a small tissue biopsy can be arranged quickly, ensuring an accurate diagnosis without unnecessary delay.
Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Fast Access Appointments – rapid referral and investigation pathway.
Comprehensive Imaging – ultrasound, CT, and MRI available.
Expert Multidisciplinary Team – radiologists, pathologists, and ENT/head & neck surgeons working together.
Peace of Mind – clear answers, fast results, and a plan for the next steps.
Take the First Step
If you’ve noticed a neck lump, don’t wait and worry—early assessment is the best way to gain reassurance and rule out anything serious.
📞 Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to book a fast-access neck lump assessment and get the answers you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Neck Lumps
Are most neck lumps cancer?
No. The majority of neck lumps are benign and related to infection, inflammation, cysts, or thyroid disease. However, some lumps require urgent assessment to rule out more serious causes, which is why timely investigation is important.
When should a neck lump be checked urgently?
You should seek prompt ENT assessment if a neck lump:
Persists for more than 2–3 weeks
Is hard, fixed, or increasing in size
Is painless and not associated with infection
Is associated with hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, or weight loss
Occurs in adults over 40, especially with a history of smoking or alcohol use
What is the most common cause of a neck lump?
Enlarged lymph nodes due to infection are the most common cause, particularly in children and young adults. These often reduce in size once the infection settles.
What is a neck ultrasound and why is it important?
Ultrasound is the first-line investigation for most neck lumps. It:
Identifies the nature of the lump (lymph node, thyroid, salivary gland, cyst)
Assesses size, shape, and internal features
Guides fine needle aspiration (FNA) if needed
It is quick, painless, and highly informative.
What is Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)?
FNA is a simple outpatient test where a thin needle is used to sample cells from the lump. It:
Takes only a few minutes
Does not usually require anaesthetic
Provides crucial information about whether a lump is benign, inflammatory, or suspicious
Will I need a CT or MRI scan?
Not everyone. CT or MRI scans are used when:
The lump is deep or complex
Ultrasound findings are unclear
There is concern about spread or involvement of surrounding structures
Your ENT specialist will advise if these are necessary.
Does a normal scan mean I don’t need follow-up?
Often, yes—but this depends on symptoms and findings. Some benign lumps are monitored to ensure they settle or remain stable. You will always be given clear follow-up advice.
What happens if cancer is suspected?
If there is any concern, you will be fast-tracked into an appropriate head and neck pathway. Early diagnosis leads to excellent outcomes in most head and neck cancers.
Why choose Hampshire ENT Clinics for neck lump assessment?
Patients choose our service because we offer:
Rapid-access appointments
On-site ultrasound and FNA
Access to CT and MRI imaging
Multidisciplinary expertise (ENT, radiology, pathology)
Clear answers and prompt next steps
How do I arrange an assessment?
You can contact Hampshire ENT Clinics directly to book a fast-access neck lump assessment. Early review provides reassurance and ensures nothing important is missed.
👉 If you’ve noticed a neck lump, don’t wait and worry—early specialist assessment is the safest approach. Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today for prompt evaluation and peace of mind.