Causes of painful lump under chin. How to get rid of it?

Overview

Waking up to a lump under the chin is definitely not the start of a good morning. While most lumps under the jaw are harmless and can resolve after a good fluid drainage massage, some of them can be harmful if not treated on time. 

A doctor’s visit, over a doubt, might seem a little too much. So, here’s the breakdown for you to learn a thing or two about the lump you are feeling before you are overthinking it. 

Your body has complex systems working together to maintain your health; one of the most important is the lymphatic system. This system plays a key role in protecting you from infections and illnesses.

Swollen lymph nodes, especially around the jaw, indicate an underlying issue. These lymph nodes may swell due to infections, injuries, or, in rare cases, more serious conditions like metastasized cancer.

But what exactly do they indicate? Keep reading to compare your symptoms as per the cause.

How to assess a swollen lump under your chin or jaw?

Normally, lymph nodes are not felt. However, when lymph nodes detect a problem with the lymphatic fluid, they react and swell. These problems can include infection, illness, cancer, or a response to injury.

Depending upon the cause, differences in the appearance of the lumps under the jaw can be noticed. The size may vary from as small as a pea to as big as a cherry. Generally, lymph nodes over 1 cm in diameter are considered ‘abnormal.’ Here’s how to evaluate the lump based on size, texture, mobility, and whether it’s painful.

Small vs. large lump

• Small lump: A smaller lump (typically under 1 cm) may indicate a minor issue like a swollen lymph node from a cold or minor infection. Small lumps are usually not alarming but should still be monitored, especially if they persist.
• Large lump: Larger lumps (over 2 cm) could signal a more serious condition, such as a cyst, abscess, or in rare cases, a tumor. If the lump grows over time or becomes increasingly noticeable, seeking medical advice is important.

Soft vs. firm lump

• Soft lump: A soft lump often indicates a fluid-filled cyst or an inflamed lymph node, typically caused by an infection. These are usually benign and tend to resolve as the infection clears.
• Firm lump: A firm lump could be more concerning and may signal conditions like benign growth, swollen glands, or, in rare cases, cancer. The firmness and resistance to touch warrant a thorough medical evaluation.

Mobile vs. fixed lump

• Mobile lump: It is likely benign if the lump moves easily under the skin when pressed. Mobile lumps often indicate a non-serious issue, such as a cyst or an inflamed lymph node, which can resolve on their own.
• Fixed lump: A lump that feels immovable or attached to surrounding tissues may indicate a more serious condition, such as a tumor or an advanced infection. It’s important to have fixed lumps examined by a healthcare professional.

Painless vs. tender lump

• Painless lump: A lump that doesn’t hurt could still be harmless, but persistent, painless lumps may indicate something more serious, such as a benign tumor or even cancer. A doctor should evaluate painless lumps if they persist for over a few weeks.
• Tender lump: A tender or painful lump is often a sign of infection or inflammation. This could be due to conditions such as a bacterial infection, swollen lymph nodes, or an abscess. Tender lumps are usually short-lived and subside as the underlying cause is treated.

What causes a lump under the chin and how to identify it?

Lumps under the jaw can be caused by various factors, ranging from common infections to more serious health conditions. Below are some of the potential causes and their warning signs:

1. Swollen or Infected Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes, which are part of the immune system, often swell due to infections or underlying health conditions. 

Lump due to other infections

The lymph node swelling that occurs in response to infections or inflammation in nearby tissues is called reactive lymphadenopathy. The lymph nodes enlarge as they filter and respond to pathogens (like bacteria or viruses) from nearby areas.

• Cold and flu: Swollen nodes often accompany respiratory infections.
• Ear infections and sinus infections: These can lead to swelling around the neck and jaw.
• Strep throat or tonsillitis: These throat infections are common reasons for swollen nodes.
• Infected tooth or abscess: Dental infections can also lead to swelling under the jaw.
• Other infections: Measles, mononucleosis, toxoplasmosis, and even cat scratch fever can cause lymph nodes to swell.

Lump due to infected lymph nodes

While lymph nodes often swell due to an infection in their general area, it is also possible for the lymph node to become infected, also known as lymphadenitis. This term refers to the inflammation of a lymph node itself, usually due to an infection that has spread to the lymph node. Various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can cause it. In this case, the lymph node becomes the primary infection site.

Symptoms of infected lymph nodes:

• Tender, swollen nodes that may feel soft or firm.
• Redness or warmth in the affected area.
• Sometimes, nodes may be filled with pus, or fluid may drain from them.

2. Cancerous lumps

Cancer can cause a lump under the jaw due to:

• Lymphoma or leukemia: Cancers originating in the lymphatic system.
• Metastasis: Cancer from other parts of the body spreading to lymph nodes.
• Tumors in nearby areas: Cancer affecting the mouth, throat, thyroid, or salivary glands.

Symptoms of cancerous lumps:

• Hard, painless lumps that do not move when touched.
• Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, or night sweats.
• Difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or persistent cough.

3. Cysts and benign growths

Benign growths, while non-cancerous, can still cause lumps under the jaw. Common types include:

• Cysts: These fluid-filled sacs can form due to blocked sebaceous glands.
• Lipomas: Soft, movable growths of fat cells that grow slowly.
• Dermatofibromas: Round, fibrous tissue lumps that may appear after minor injuries.

Symptoms of cysts or benign growths:

• Soft or firm lumps that may be movable.
• Typically painless, but may cause discomfort if they grow or become irritated.

4. Salivary gland issues

Issues with the salivary glands, such as:

• Salivary duct stones: Blockages that cause swelling and discomfort.
• Mumps: A viral infection that leads to swollen salivary glands.

Symptoms:

• Pain or swelling under the jaw, especially when eating.
• Dry mouth or difficulty swallowing.

5. Other Causes

Additional causes for lumps under the jaw include:

• Allergic reactions: Swelling can result from food allergies or reactions to insect stings or bites.
• Acne or boils: Skin infections or clogged hair follicles.
• Injuries: Cuts, bruises, or fractures in the jaw can cause lumps to form.
• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to swollen lymph nodes.

How to diagnose lumps under the jaw?

Diagnosis varies depending on the signs and symptoms you are experiencing regarding the lump under your jaw. It may take one of the following forms or a combination of two sometimes for accurate evaluation:

Physical examination

In most cases, your doctor will diagnose the cause of swollen lymph nodes based on your symptoms. For example, swollen lymph nodes under the jaw, difficulty swallowing, and throat inflammation may indicate strep throat. However, when lymph nodes swell without any other symptoms, diagnosis becomes more challenging.

Your doctor will begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Be prepared to discuss any recent travel or animal encounters that could have contributed to your condition.

Imaging tests

Your doctor may prescribe imaging tests, such as MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, or ultrasounds, to assist in diagnosis and identify potential causes. These tests help visualize the swollen lymph nodes and surrounding tissues.

Biopsy

Although rare, a biopsy may be necessary if your doctor suspects a serious condition, such as cancer. This procedure involves removing a small tissue sample from the lymph node with a needle, allowing for further examination.

Checking your lymph nodes at home

Generally, there’s no need to check for swollen lymph nodes without your doctor’s guidance, as doing so may lead to unnecessary stress. However, if your doctor advises you to monitor your lymph nodes, follow these steps:

• Start at the lymph nodes in front of the ear. Use your fingertips to gently feel the area in a circular motion.

• Follow a consistent order: Check your lymph nodes systematically, starting from in front of the ear and moving down towards the collarbone.

• Compare both sides: Assess both sides of your neck to compare the size of the lymph nodes, noting any differences.

• Tilt your head: When examining your neck, tilt your head towards the side being examined to help relax the muscles.

• Press gently under the muscle: Use your fingers to press gently under the muscle to check for any swelling.

• Check above the collarbone: Hunch your shoulders and bring your elbows forward to relax your skin while checking above the collarbone.

If you notice any changes or swelling, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

How to treat swollen lymph nodes on one side of the jaw?

The treatment of jawline swollen lymph nodes varies depending on the cause, whether infection, injury, or other medical conditions. Here are the main approaches to managing swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or chin.

Medical treatment options

Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be necessary to resolve the swelling in bacterial or fungal infections. Surgery may be required to correct the issue if an injury has caused the lymph node to swell, resulting in scar tissue or improper drainage.

If swollen lymph nodes are due to cancer, they will not shrink until the cancer is effectively treated. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend surgical removal of the affected lymph node as part of your treatment plan.

At-home care

In many cases, swollen lymph nodes will resolve on their own once the initial issue is treated. For example, if the swelling is due to a viral infection, the lymph nodes will typically decrease in size as your body fights off the infection.

In the meantime, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest can also support your recovery.

Ultimately, your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment options based on your specific condition and health history.

When to see a doctor

Consult a doctor if you have lumps under your chin that persist for over a few weeks. While mild symptoms from minor infections may not require immediate attention, seek urgent care if you experience:

• Fever: A persistent high fever.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing: Significant discomfort or obstruction in the throat.
• Rapid growth: Any lump that grows quickly or changes in texture.
• Severe pain: Worsening pain in the area.
• Night sweats or unexplained weight loss: These could indicate a serious underlying issue.

If your symptoms are mild, such as those from a cold, it may not be necessary to see a doctor immediately, as swollen lymph nodes usually return to normal size on their own. 

FAQs about a lump under the jaw