3. A recent infection may explain a lump in the neck.

If you’ve recently had a cold, sore throat, dental problem, or other infection, a swollen lymph node may be the simplest explanation for a new lump in your neck.

You may notice the lump at the same time as other symptoms such as:

• Sore throat
• Rhinorrhea
• Cough
• Fever
• earache
• Toothache

The lymph node may remain swollen for a while even after you start to feel better.

However, if the lump does not gradually improve or continues to increase in size, it should be evaluated.

4. Ingrown hairs

Small bumps can appear when a hair curls inwards into the skin instead of growing outwards.

This is more common after:

• Shaving
• Hair removal
• Garrison
• Other forms of hair removal

An ingrown hair may appear as a small red or skin-colored bump.

Sometimes it can become:

• Tender
• That causes itching
• Bitter
• Full of pus

Avoid squeezing or touching it repeatedly.

Doing so can increase inflammation and the risk of infection.