Dr Doctor, I have always had a very small pea sized lump on the left side of my neck since I was young. It is not painful and has been pretty much the same size for the past 15-20 years (I am now 31). It increases in size now and again, but usually goes back to normal size. The lump also does not more. Yesterday however I was stung by a bee in the back on my neck and the pea size lump has now become very hard. I would not say overly bigger, but just very hard. I also have a little ear ache but it is not painful. Can I assume that the pea sized lump gets bigger when or if there is an infection, such as a bee sting as I received yesterday? Or should I be more concerned and go to the doctors? Your guidance would be very much appreciated. Regards Lee
Hi. You are right. It would tend to harden or increase in size or become painful in presence of any infection in that area. It is most likely to be a lymph node swelling, and it is nothing to worry about. Furthermore, it will resolve in a week or so. If it increases in size or becomes painful then you should consult your Doctor and take a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines. You should be fine soon. Do let us know if there are other queries that we can help you with. Take care.  Chat Doctor.