Lumps and Bumps: Which Changes Need Urgent Review

Summary

Finding a lump or bump on your body can be worrying, even when you feel otherwise well. Many people immediately fear something serious, particularly cancer, despite the fact that most lumps and swellings turn out to be benign.

This guide explains why lumps are common, which features are usually reassuring, which changes deserve timely medical review, and how to approach the situation calmly and safely. The aim is to replace uncertainty and fear with a clear, proportionate plan.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for you if:

• You have noticed a new lump, bump or swelling anywhere on your body

• An existing lump has changed in size, shape or feel

• You are unsure whether a lump is harmless or needs checking

• Online searching has increased your anxiety rather than reassured you

• You feel uncertain about whether to wait, see your GP, or seek further advice

If you believe you may have a life-threatening condition, stop reading and call 999 immediately.

Red flag checklist: when to seek urgent help

Call 999 or attend A&E immediately if a lump or swelling is associated with:

• Rapid growth over days or weeks

• A hard, fixed or immobile feel

• New weakness, numbness or neurological symptoms

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Unexplained weight loss, persistent fevers or night sweats

• Skin breakdown, ulceration or bleeding over the lump

• Severe or rapidly worsening pain

This clinic is not an emergency service. If symptoms are severe, worsening quickly, or potentially life-threatening, seek urgent medical care.

Understanding lumps and bumps: common causes

Most lumps and bumps fall into predictable, non-cancerous categories. Knowing these patterns helps reduce unnecessary fear.

Lymph nodes

Lymph nodes commonly enlarge during or after infections. They often:

• Feel slightly tender

• Move under the skin

• Reduce in size gradually over weeks

Persistent enlargement does not automatically mean something serious, but it should be reviewed.

Cysts

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that usually:

• Grow slowly

• Feel smooth or rubbery

• Are not dangerous

They may fluctuate in size and can persist for years without causing harm.

Lipomas

Lipomas are benign collections of fatty tissue. They typically:

• Feel soft

• Are painless

• Move easily under the skin

They do not become cancerous.

Inflammatory or infective swellings

Minor infections, insect bites or skin inflammation can cause temporary lumps that often:

• Are tender

• Appear suddenly

• Improve with time or simple treatment

Hormonal or physiological changes

Hormonal changes can affect tissues such as the breasts, neck or groin and may cause lumps that fluctuate over time.

What usually counts as reassuring

A lump is often less concerning if it:

• Has been stable in size

• Feels soft or rubbery

• Moves under the skin

• Appeared after an infection

• Slowly improves

Reassuring features do not mean a lump should be ignored forever, but they do allow for calm observation rather than panic.

When a lump deserves further review

A medical review is sensible if:

• A lump persists beyond 3–6 weeks

• It continues to grow

• Its features are unclear

• It causes discomfort or ongoing anxiety

• It does not fit a clearly benign pattern

Seeking clarity is appropriate and reasonable.

What you can safely do at home for now

If there are no red flags:

• Avoid repeated pressing or measuring, which can cause inflammation

• Make a simple note of the size and location

• Observe changes over time rather than daily checking

• Avoid online self-diagnosis

• Seek pharmacist advice for minor skin or infective causes if appropriate

If uncertainty persists, arrange medical review.

When and how to seek non-emergency medical help

1. Start with your GP

Your GP can:

• Examine the lump

• Assess whether tests or imaging are needed

• Provide reassurance or referral if appropriate

2. Consider a consultant physician if

• The lump is persistent or unclear

• Previous reassurance has not resolved concern

• There are multiple or overlapping symptoms

• You want senior-level assessment and a clear plan

• 
  

How Dr Paraiso’s clinic can help

Dr Hassan Paraiso is a Consultant in Acute and General Internal Medicine who supports adults with unexplained or persistent symptoms.

The clinic offers:

• In-person consultations in Salford

• Online consultations across the UK

• Targeted investigations when appropriate

Each consultation includes a careful history, focused examination, proportionate investigation, and a clear written summary that can be shared with your GP.

Key takeaways

• Most lumps and bumps are benign

• Changes over time matter more than a single finding

• Red flags require urgent assessment

• Uncertainty alone is a valid reason to seek medical advice

• A structured review helps avoid both panic and delay

  
  

Final safety reminder

This clinic is not an emergency service. If your symptoms are severe, worsening quickly, or potentially life-threatening, call 999 or attend A&E immediately.