Head & Neck Masses

Head and Neck Masses: Understanding Their Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Noticing a lump on your head or neck? What could it mean, and when should you see a doctor? Learn about head and neck masses, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options from Pinnacle ENT.

Discovering a mass on your head or neck can be concerning, but there are many potential causes, some of which are harmless. If a growth or lump lasts more than a few weeks, it’s important to schedule an appointment with one of our ENT specialists. Early detection is crucial, especially if the mass is cancerous.

At Pinnacle ENT, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating head and neck masses, ensuring you receive the necessary care and treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Head and Neck Masses?

There are several symptoms that may indicate a mass in the head or neck, including:

• A lump on the neck that persists for more than two weeks, especially if it’s not linked to a cold or infection
• A change in your voice or persistent hoarseness lasting more than two weeks

• Growth in the mouth or on the tongue

• Blood in your saliva or phlegm

• Difficulty swallowing

• Persistent ear pain, especially when swallowing

• Unexplained weight loss

What Causes Head and Neck Masses?

What are the most common causes of neck masses, and are they always cancerous? Most neck masses are caused by enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes typically swell while fighting infections, returning to normal size once the infection clears.

Other possible causes include benign masses, such as:

• Cysts
• Thyroid masses
• Vascular masses
• Salivary gland masses

While these noncancerous masses don’t spread to surrounding tissue, they may require removal if they press on nearby nerves.

In some cases, a mass on the head or neck may be a sign of cancer. These tumors can either be primary, meaning they originate on the head or neck, or secondary, meaning they’ve spread from other parts of the body.

How Are These Masses Diagnosed and Treated?

When you visit Pinnacle ENT, our team of specialists will examine the mass by evaluating its location, size, and consistency. Several diagnostic tests may be performed to determine the causes, including:

• A biopsy to test tissue samples
• MRI, CT, or PET scans for detailed imaging
• SPECT scans to evaluate blood flow and function in the affected tissue

Treatment for head and neck masses will depend on the underlying cause of the mass. For benign neck cysts and masses, treatment typically consists of surgical removal. For head and neck cancers, a combination of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery may be used depending on the type, size, and stage of cancer.

Personalized Care for Your Cancer

No matter the cause of the head or neck mass affecting you, Pinnacle ENT provides comprehensive and customized care to meet your specific needs. From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, our team is your partner to ensure you receive the best care possible.

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Early detection and treatment of head and neck masses is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome, regardless if its cause is benign or something more serious.

At Pinnacle ENT, we understand the importance of timely evaluation and personalized care. Our experienced team is here to provide thorough testing, diagnosis, and treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait — if you have noticed a mass or have concerns about symptoms, schedule an appointment with our team today.