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Lump or swollen gland that won't go away (needs checking)

Also called: Lump that won't go away, swollen gland, swollen lymph node, neck lump

Swollen glands (lymph nodes) usually come from a cold, sore throat, or other infection and shrink within 2 to 4 weeks. A lump that keeps growing, feels hard, doesn't move, or lasts longer needs a check.

UsuallyFrom an infection
Check ifOver 2 to 4 weeks, hard, fixed, or growing
Common placesNeck, armpit, groin

Overview

Lymph nodes are small glands that fight infection, so they swell when you're sick and feel tender.

Other lumps can be cysts, fatty lumps (lipomas), or rarely cancers such as lymphoma.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Lump that won't go away
  • Painless lump that's growing or won't go away

Less common

  • Tender swollen glands
  • Night sweats
  • Weight loss
  • Fever

Look up a symptom: Losing weight without trying

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA lump with fever and spreading redness, or trouble swallowing or breathing.
See a doctor soonA lump lasting more than 2 to 4 weeks, hard or fixed, larger than about an inch, or with night sweats or weight loss.

Causes

Infections, cysts, lipomas, and sometimes cancer.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Smoking (neck lumps)
  • Older age

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician feels the lump and checks nearby areas.

Questions you may be asked

  • How long, any recent illness
  • Fever, night sweats, weight loss

The exam

Size, feel, and whether it moves.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Blood tests:
  • Ultrasound or CT:
  • Biopsy: If it stays or looks worrying.

Treatment

Watch it and treat any infection.

Self-care

  • Note the size and the date you found it
  • Treat the cold or sore throat
  • Don't squeeze or poke it

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Small neck nodes are very common and usually harmless.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most lumps are harmless.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Do I need a scan or biopsy?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Lump or swollen gland that won't go away (needs checking)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.