Problems with neck

[Lotus266012]

Hi I am a 28yr old female and over the course of last week I have been getting sharp pains in the right side of my neck. I've taken painkillers for this which the pain hasn't really responded to and since then I noticed by chance that I could feel a firm lump/swelling at the right side of my neck. Also the skin has been getting itchy there and I've been scratching it. Any ideas as to what this could be?

Thanks.

[jemma116]

If the lump is painful and itchy, it may be that you have been stung.  
It may be a boil or abscess forming.

Try not to scratch (easier said than done I know).  Apply a cold wet flannel to help ease the itching, or if you have any calomine lotion that will help.

You could ask the chemist to take a look at it, or make an appointment to see your doctor as you may need a course of antibiotics if it is a boil or abscess forming or in fact if it is an infected sting.

Best wishes.

[Lotus266012]

Hi thanks for your answer.

I spoke to my doctor and they examined the area saying that the muscle is slightly more pronounced than on the left. Not sure why this is and why I keep getting itchy skin - I don't have itchy skin directly where the muscle is, it's more at the front over my thyroid and it's worse at night. Also my joints are getting more achy in the later hours. Doctor has advised me if the muscle gets more swollen/painful I should come back.

Thanks x

[jemma116]

Thanks for letting me know how you got on.  Hope it settles down soon for you.

With your achy joints have you been diagnosed with arthritic problems?  I find some foods make my joints much worse or if I have been overdoing things.

Do you wear any jewellery or put on any perfume in that area?  Some people are allergic to nickel and perfumes.  

Hope you get on OK.

Best wishes.