small lump on head

About 5 months ago, i discovered that there is a pea-size lump on the back of my head. the lump is a little above the middle of the back of my skull, and can be moved if it is pushed. it is very painful when pressure is applied to it. i often feel dizzy, and i have fainted several times in my life, but i don't know if this has any relation to the lump on my head. health care costs are getting so expensive that i don't know if it is worth it to go into the doctor to get it checked out. do you have any idea what this could be?

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  That movable pea=sized lump on the back of your head looks to me like a lymph node.  The fact that it's tender when pressed may mean that you have an infection or an inflammation in a nearby area, such as the ears, scalp, or even teeth (cavities) or throat.
It might be wise to have it checked by a doctor so you can get proper treatment.