A lump under the jaw can be concerning. Many are not serious and are often treatable. Understanding the various reasons helps in knowing when medical attention is needed and what to expect.
Common Reasons for a Jaw Lump
Swollen lymph nodes are a frequent cause of a jaw lump. These small, bean-shaped glands filter lymph fluid and trap foreign particles as part of the immune system. When the body fights an infection (e.g., common cold, strep throat, mononucleosis), lymph nodes in the neck and under the jaw can swell. These nodes are often tender, movable, and vary in size. Dental infections, like an abscessed tooth, can also cause nearby lymph nodes to swell and become painful.
Cysts are another common reason for jaw lumps. These sacs, filled with fluid or other material, are usually benign. Examples include sebaceous cysts (from blocked oil glands) or dermoid cysts (present from birth). They typically feel soft and are movable under the skin.
Issues with salivary glands under the jaw can also manifest as a lump. Sialadenitis, an inflammation often caused by infection or blockage, leads to swelling and discomfort. Salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis) can obstruct ducts, causing saliva to back up and form a painful lump, especially during or after eating.
Soft, movable lumps of fatty tissue, called lipomas, frequently occur just under the skin. These growths are benign and generally painless. A lump might also result from muscle swelling or injury in the neck and jaw area, perhaps due to minor trauma or strain.
Less Common Causes of Jaw Lumps
Beyond common causes, less frequent conditions can also lead to a jaw lump. Benign tumors, such as fibromas, can develop in the soft tissues. These non-cancerous growths may require observation or removal if they cause symptoms.
Certain systemic conditions, including autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause persistent lymph node swelling. Chronic infections, such as tuberculosis or cat-scratch disease, can also result in prolonged lymph node enlargement.
While less common, malignant conditions can present as a jaw lump. Cancers such as lymphoma or squamous cell carcinoma can cause lymph nodes or other tissues to enlarge. Salivary gland cancers or other forms of jaw cancer can also appear as a lump. Unlike many benign lumps, cancerous lumps may be firm, fixed, and often painless. These lumps might also be accompanied by unexplained weight loss or night sweats.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek professional medical advice if a jaw lump is growing rapidly or has been present for more than a few weeks without improvement. Lumps that feel firm, fixed, or are painless can be concerning and warrant prompt attention.
Other symptoms indicating a medical visit include unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or a persistent fever. Difficulty swallowing or breathing, hoarseness, a persistent sore throat, or noticeable changes in the skin over the lump are also important signs. Any lump causing significant pain or discomfort should also be evaluated.
What to Expect During a Medical Visit
When you visit a healthcare provider for a jaw lump, the process begins with a thorough medical history. The doctor will ask about when the lump first appeared, how it has changed, its characteristics, and any associated symptoms, including recent illnesses or dental issues. Your general medical history, including pre-existing conditions or medications, will also be reviewed.
Following the history, a physical examination will be performed. The doctor will carefully feel the lump, assessing its size, texture, tenderness, and how easily it moves. They will also examine surrounding areas, including your neck, mouth, and throat, to check for other signs of inflammation or abnormalities.
If necessary, further diagnostic tests may be ordered. Blood tests can help identify infection or inflammation. Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI) provide detailed images of the lump’s internal structure.
In some cases, a biopsy, such as a fine-needle aspiration, is performed to remove a small tissue sample for microscopic analysis. This is the most definitive way to determine if the lump is benign or malignant. Treatment then depends on the underlying cause, ranging from observation and antibiotics to surgical removal or other therapies.