How long do swollen lumps last? A comprehensive guide

September 27, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that most skin lumps are harmless and temporary? Understanding how long do swollen lumps last is crucial for distinguishing between minor issues and more serious concerns that require a doctor's attention.

Quick Summary

The duration of a swollen lump depends entirely on its underlying cause, ranging from a few days for minor issues to several months for more significant trauma or untreated conditions. Some types of lumps, like cysts, may not resolve without medical intervention. It is vital to monitor for signs that warrant a doctor's visit.

Key Points

Duration Depends on Cause: The healing time for swollen lumps varies significantly based on what caused them, from a few days for insect bites to months for deep injuries.
Lymph Nodes Heal in 1–2 Weeks: Swollen glands from infection typically resolve within one to two weeks, but persistence beyond this timeframe warrants a doctor's visit.
Cysts and Lipomas Are Not Temporary: Unlike swelling caused by infection or injury, cysts and lipomas do not go away on their own and require medical intervention for removal.
Watch for Red Flags: Urgent medical attention is needed for lumps that are hard, fixed, rapidly growing, or accompanied by fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
Simple Home Care Helps: For minor lumps, avoiding squeezing, keeping the area clean, and applying warm compresses can help manage symptoms and aid recovery.
Don't Self-Diagnose: Never assume a lump is harmless without proper evaluation, as a doctor can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend the right course of action.

Understanding the Timeline of Swollen Lumps

The duration of a swollen lump is not universal; it is highly dependent on its cause, location, and the individual's overall health. A small, painful lump that appears overnight is typically a different scenario than a slow-growing, painless one that has been present for months. This guide breaks down the typical timelines for different types of swollen lumps and provides clear advice on when to seek medical help.

The Cause Determines the Duration

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes, or glands, often swell in response to a nearby infection, such as a cold, sore throat, or skin infection.

Typical Duration: Swollen glands usually subside on their own within 1 to 2 weeks as the body fights off the infection.
Longer-Lasting Swelling: If the swelling persists beyond two weeks, it could indicate a more chronic issue or an underlying condition that requires medical attention. In rare cases, chronically inflamed lymph nodes can calcify and remain enlarged indefinitely.

Lumps from Injury (Hematomas and Bruises)

Following a bump or fall, it's common for blood to pool under the skin, forming a raised, swollen lump called a hematoma.

Typical Duration: Mild hematomas and bruises usually heal within five to ten days. Larger or deeper hematomas can take several weeks to a few months to fully resolve. The swelling can worsen for the first few days before gradually improving.
Healing Process: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help speed recovery.

Insect Bites and Stings

A localized allergic reaction to an insect bite can cause a small, swollen lump that can be itchy or painful.

Typical Duration: Mild swelling and itching typically clear up within a few days. More significant reactions, especially if the swelling spreads, may take up to a week to resolve.

Skin Cysts (e.g., Epidermoid Cysts)

Cysts are sacs beneath the skin that contain fluid, pus, or other material. Epidermoid cysts are the most common.

Typical Duration: Unlike infection-related swelling, cysts do not usually go away on their own. While inflammation might subside with home care, the cyst itself will likely remain and can flare up again. A surgical procedure is often required for complete removal.

Lipomas

Lipomas are non-cancerous, fatty lumps that grow slowly beneath the skin.

Typical Duration: Lipomas are permanent growths and do not resolve naturally. They are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they are painful or cosmetically bothersome. Removal is a surgical procedure, and post-surgical swelling typically resolves in a few weeks.

Comparison Table: Common Swollen Lumps and Their Timelines


Type of Lump	Cause	Typical Duration	Notes
Swollen Lymph Node	Infection (viral, bacterial)	1–2 weeks	Can last longer with chronic infection; may calcify permanently.
Insect Bite/Sting	Allergic reaction	A few days to 1 week	Varies with bite severity and individual sensitivity.
Hematoma/Bruise	Trauma, injury	Days to a few months	Depends on size and depth of the injury.
Epidermoid Cyst	Blocked oil gland	Chronic; resolves with removal	Inflammation can lessen, but the cyst will likely remain.
Lipoma	Benign fatty growth	Permanent; resolves with removal	Generally harmless and slow-growing.

Home Care Recommendations

If you have a swollen lump caused by a minor injury or infection, these home care steps may help manage symptoms and aid healing:

Rest: Avoid straining the affected area to prevent further irritation.
Ice: For injury-related swelling, apply a cold compress to the area for 10-20 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation.
Warm Compress: For infected lumps like boils or inflamed cysts, a warm, wet washcloth can help promote drainage and ease discomfort.
Cleanliness: Keep the area clean to prevent further infection, but avoid scrubbing or irritating the lump.
Do Not Squeeze: Never try to pop, squeeze, or lance a lump, as this can worsen infection and cause scarring.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most swollen lumps are benign, some warning signs indicate you should see a doctor urgently.

Persistence: The lump hasn't decreased in size after two weeks.
Change in Size: The lump is growing rapidly.
Texture: The lump feels hard, irregular, or is fixed in place and doesn't move easily.
Pain: The lump is painful, red, or hot to the touch.
Associated Symptoms: You experience fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
Location: The lump appears in a concerning area, such as above the collarbone.
Bleeding: The lump bleeds or forms a wound.

For more detailed information on specific conditions, resources from reputable health organizations can be helpful, such as the National Institutes of Health.

Final Thoughts on Swollen Lumps

The duration of a swollen lump is a key indicator of its underlying cause. While many are temporary and harmless, paying close attention to their characteristics and persistence is essential. Monitoring the lump and seeking medical advice when concerning signs appear is the most prudent course of action for your health and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should see a doctor if a swollen lump persists for more than two weeks, is growing rapidly, or doesn't show any signs of improvement.

Yes, large or deep hematomas caused by injury can take several weeks to a few months to fully heal and for the swelling to subside.

A lymph node might stay swollen for longer than two weeks due to a chronic or persistent infection, or in rare cases, due to underlying conditions like certain autoimmune disorders or cancer.

No, you should never squeeze, scratch, or try to drain a lump yourself. Doing so can push an infection deeper, cause bleeding, and lead to more severe inflammation or complications.

Harmless lumps, such as a lipoma, are often soft, smooth, moveable, and slow-growing. Lumps from minor infections are often tender and painful but resolve within a couple of weeks.

For simple cases like a minor infection or injury, home remedies such as rest, applying warm compresses, and maintaining cleanliness can help manage symptoms and support the natural healing process.

A doctor can properly diagnose the cause of a lump. Cysts are often sacs containing fluid or material, while lipomas are soft, fatty growths. A biopsy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.