An enlarged neck can be caused by injuries or illnesses affecting the lymph nodes, thyroid gland, or other structures in the neck. Symptoms may include swelling, pain, and redness. Causes can range from infections to thyroid disorders, and treatment depends on the underlying cause.
An enlarged neck refers to any swelling of the neck itself or structures inside the neck. Lymph nodes, the thyroid gland, and other important systems are found within the base of the neck along with the vocal cords and blood vessels. There are many reasons these things can swell. The most common causes of an enlarged neck are injuries and illnesses.
Symptoms of an enlarged neck may become apparent after an injury has occurred to the area. This usually involves some type of blunt force or a blow to the neck. Most cases of neck injuries are the result of accidents, such as those involving an automobile. The neck may swell slightly or severely and be accompanied by pain, redness, and sometimes bruising or bleeding. All neck injuries should be checked by a doctor because internal bleeding can occur.
The most common cause of an enlarged neck is a goiter or enlarged thyroid nodules. These are caused by a swelling of the nodules located around the thyroid gland or by a swelling of the thyroid itself. In most cases, swollen nodules are the result of a thyroid disorder, which in many cases can be resolved with proper treatment. A swollen thyroid can also indicate a thyroid disorder or a lack of iodine in the diet. In some rare cases, this type of enlarged neck could be an early indication of thyroid cancer. For this reason goiters and swelling around the base of the neck should be checked by a doctor.
Enlarged lymph nodes can also cause an enlarged neck. Most of the time swollen lymph nodes are caused by an infection in the body, such as a cold or flu virus. Even something as simple as a pimple can cause nearby lymph nodes to swell. Any swollen lymph nodes or areas in the neck should be examined by a doctor because in rare cases they can indicate cancer, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Remedies to help an enlarged neck vary based on the underlying cause. Medications can help with infections of thyroid disorders, while swelling from injuries will likely decrease on its own as it heals. Sometimes the cause of neck swelling is not known. Other times, mild bloating may be due to water retention, which results from not drinking enough fluids or consuming too much sodium. Any prolonged or severe swelling should be investigated by a doctor.
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