HomeAnswersGeneral Medicinelump

Could a soft lump near my neck be a swollen lymph node?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 44-year-old female, a non-smoker, 5'3", 145 lbs, with no known health issues.

I recently noticed a small, soft, movable lump, smaller than a pea, near the collarbone on the lower left side of my neck. It seems to move with my trapezius muscle and almost disappears when I roll my shoulders forward or turn my head in the opposite direction. Could this still be a supraclavicular lymph node, or might it be something else? I’ve read online that a swollen supraclavicular node can be concerning, which has increased my anxiety. For context, I had my annual check-up just a month ago, and everything came back normal.

Thank you for any insight.

Please help me.

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Mohamed Abdirahman Ali

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohamed Abdirahman Ali is a skilled and experienced Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon dedicated to providing advanced surgical care. He specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, gastrointestinal and abdominal surgeries, and complex general surgical interventions. Renowned for precision, patient-focused care, and evidence-based approaches, Dr. Ali combines technical expertise with compassionate guidance, ensuring optimal outcomes and promoting faster recovery and overall wellness for his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

This swelling could have several possible causes:

  1. It may be a swollen lymph node due to a recent infection or inflammation in nearby structures.

  2. It could be a benign growth or a cyst, such as a lipoma.

  3. It might also be related to muscle issues.

A reassuring sign is that you are not experiencing any other concerning symptoms like weight loss, cough, or systemic complaints, only the lump.

I would like to ask:Do you have any past medical conditions or a family history of significant health issues?

I recommend seeing a doctor for a physical examination of the swelling. Based on the findings, further investigations such as an ultrasound or even a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.Please feel free to reach out if you need any further assistance.

Looking forward to your response.

I hope this answer helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At August 23, 2025
Reviewed At August 23, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohamed Abdirahman Ali is a skilled and experienced Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon dedicated to providing advanced surgical care. He specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, gastrointestinal and abdominal surgeries, and complex general surgical interventions. Renowned for precision, patient-focused care, and evidence-based approaches, Dr. Ali combines technical expertise with compassionate guidance, ensuring optimal outcomes and promoting faster recovery and overall wellness for his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mohamed Abdirahman Ali is a skilled and experienced Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon dedicated to providing advanced surgical care. He specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures, gastrointestinal and abdominal surgeries, and complex general surgical interventions. Renowned for precision, patient-focused care, and evidence-based approaches, Dr. Ali combines technical expertise with compassionate guidance, ensuring optimal outcomes and promoting faster recovery and overall wellness for his patients.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

lumpneck swelling

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.