While most nodules are harmless, some can be sparked by other health conditions or be cancerous.
There are many reasons why nodules can occur.
Vocal cord nodules may occur when there has been overuse or misuse of the vocal cords.
Joaquin Corbalan / Getty Images
They vary in shape, size, color, and feel.
They may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms.
The best way to identify the nodule is to see a skin specialist, such as a board-certified dermatologist.
Lymph node nodules
You have lymph nodes throughout your body.
Some common places that lymph nodes can become enlarged include the neck, groin, and armpit.
Thyroid nodules
A nodule in the thyroid is an abnormal growth of thyroid cells.
These types of nodules are very common and usually harmless.
They can be associated with certain conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or an iodine deficiency.
Sometimes, these nodules are cancerous.
Additional factors, such as allergies, smoking, and tense muscles, may also cause vocal cord nodules.
They are usually categorized into different groups, including solid nodules, ground-glass nodules, and part-solid nodules.
Lung nodules are often benign (not harmful) but some can be cancerous.
Having more than one lung nodule increases the risk of nodules being cancerous.
Other
Other types of skin nodules includeacne nodules,nodular melanoma,dermatofibroma,rheumatoid nodules.
Symptoms
Symptoms of skin nodules depend on the cause.
For example, people with rheumatoid arthritis may have nodules close to their joints that can cause pain.
Nodules found in organs may be discovered when no symptoms are present.
In addition, regular checkups are important for overall health and well-being.
Summary
Nodules on the skin can appear just below the surface or deeper within organs.
Symptoms will depend on the cause.
Most nodules are not harmful but should be examined by a healthcare provider to determine the cause and treatment.
Most of the time, there is no cause for concern.
Monitoring changes to your body and going for regular checkups is important for overall health and well-being.
One main differentiator is size.
Not all tumors are cancerous.
Benign tumors grow slowly and generally stay in their primary location without invading other sites of the body.
This will depend on the underlying cause, location, and size of the nodule.
Nodules that are cancerous or causing pain may need other treatments, such as surgery.
Remember that new or changing skin growths always warrant a visit with your healthcare provider.
Most nodules are harmless, but some can be cancerous and dangerous if left untreated.
Only a medical professional can determine this.
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