A calm mind makes the path ahead much clearer. When we stop worrying for a moment, it becomes easier to see what actually needs to be done.
This photo shows a swollen, red, dome-shaped lump on the side of the neck, just behind and below the ear, with a small yellowish point on its surface.
A bump in this spot is very often an epidermoid cyst. The skin behind the ear and along the hairline has many follicles and oil glands that can become blocked.
When a follicle is blocked, keratin and skin cells collect under the surface inside a thin sac. Over time the sac fills up and the lump becomes larger and firmer.
If the cyst gets inflamed, it can grow quickly, feel tight and tender, and rub against collars, pillows or hair ties, which makes it hard to ignore.
A doctor will carefully examine any lump on the neck, because swellings in this area should always be checked by a professional to rule out other causes.
If it is a cyst, the skin can be numbed, a small opening made and the contents drained, and the sac can then be removed so it does not keep coming back.
After the procedure the spot is cleaned and covered with a small dressing. Keeping hair and products away from it while it heals helps a lot.
Washing the neck and behind the ears every day, rinsing out hair products well and not picking at small bumps all help prevent new cysts.
Keep a calm mind and the path stays clear. The videos below show cysts on the neck being treated by professionals.
