What could a lump in the back of neck on left hand side be symptom of?

There are many potential causes for a lump in the back of the neck on the left-hand side. Some possible causes include:

1. Lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that are part of the body's immune system. They help to filter out bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from the body. When there is an infection or inflammation in the body, the lymph nodes can become swollen and tender. A swollen lymph node in the back of the neck could be a sign of a variety of infections or conditions, such as:

- A cold or flu

- Strep throat

- Mononucleosis

- Bacterial skin infection

- Infected tooth

2. Lipoma

Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that are made up of fat cells. They are usually soft, moveable, and painless. Lipomas can occur anywhere in the body, but they are most commonly found in the back, neck, and shoulders.

3. Sebaceous cyst

Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous cysts that form when sebaceous glands (the glands that produce oil for the skin and hair) become clogged. Sebaceous cysts are usually small and round, and they may feel like a hard lump under the skin. They are most common on the face, neck, and back.

4. Muscle strain

A muscle strain is a tear or injury to a muscle or tendon. Muscle strains can occur in any muscle in the body, but they are most common in the neck, back, and shoulders. A muscle strain in the back of the neck can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.

5. Herniated disc

A herniated disc occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through a weakened part of the outer layer. Herniated discs can occur anywhere along the spine, but they are most common in the lower back and neck. A herniated disc in the neck can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm and hand.

6. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, but it is most common in the knees, hips, spine, and neck. Osteoarthritis in the neck can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling.

7. Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints, as well as fatigue, weight loss, and fever. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is most common in the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles.

8. Cancer

In rare cases, a lump in the back of the neck can be a sign of cancer. Cancerous tumors are usually hard, fixed in place, and may cause pain or other symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you have a lump in the back of your neck, it is important to see a doctor if:

- The lump is hard, fixed in place, or growing

- The lump is accompanied by pain, fever, or weight loss

- The lump is causing difficulty swallowing or breathing

Your doctor will be able to examine the lump and determine the cause. If necessary, they may order additional tests, such as an ultrasound or biopsy.