What can it be if you have lumps under your skin?

Lumps under the skin, known as subcutaneous lumps or swellings, can have various causes and can appear on different areas of the body. Here are some potential causes of lumps under the skin:

1. Lipoma: Lipomas are benign, fatty tumors that develop under the skin. They are usually soft, movable, and not painful.

2. Cyst: Cysts are fluid-filled sac or pockets that can develop under the skin. Common types of cysts include sebaceous cysts, which arise from blocked oil glands, and ganglion cysts, which occur near joints or tendons.

3. Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes, part of your immune system, can become swollen in response to infection, inflammation, or certain medical conditions. Swollen lymph nodes may be felt under the skin, such as in the neck, armpits, and groin areas.

4. Skin tag: Skin tags are small, fleshy, benign growths that protrude from the skin's surface. They are usually painless and don't pose any health risks.

5. Abscesses: Abscesses are collections of pus that develop under the skin due to bacterial infections. They can be painful, red, and warm to the touch.

6. Keloid or hypertrophic scar: Keloids are excessive scar tissue that forms after a skin injury or surgery. They can appear as raised, firm lumps on the skin. Hypertrophic scars are similar to keloids but usually remain within the boundaries of the original wound.

7. Muscle knots or trigger points: Muscle knots, also known as trigger points, are small, tender points within a muscle. They can feel like lumps under the skin and cause pain or discomfort.

8. Hernia: Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Depending on the location, hernias may appear as lumps under the skin, such as in case of inguinal hernias (groin area) or umbilical hernias (belly button).

9. Tumors: In some cases, lumps under the skin may indicate tumors. Both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumors can cause swellings. It's important to have suspicious lumps evaluated by a doctor.

10. Insect bites or stings: Insect bites or stings can lead to swelling and lump formation in the affected area.

If you notice a lump under your skin, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Some lumps may require further testing, such as imaging studies or biopsies, to determine the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment.