What causes a hard lump to develop along the jawline, and what should be done?

Generally, a hard lump appearing along the jawline may be caused by muscle tension, swollen lymph nodes, sebaceous cysts, boils, or submandibular gland inflammation, and the appropriate treatment depends on the specific situation.

1. Muscle tension: Prolonged poor posture, such as looking down at a phone for extended periods or excessive chewing, can cause muscle tension near the jawline, leading to the formation of a hard lump. It is recommended to correct poor posture, avoid prolonged neck flexion, and perform appropriate neck stretching and relaxation exercises.

2. Swollen lymph nodes: When the body experiences mild infection or inflammatory stimulation, pathogens may travel back via lymphatic fluid, causing reactive hyperplasia and swelling of the lymph nodes near the jawline. It is recommended to take medications such as acyclovir tablets or ribavirin granules under medical guidance.

3. Submandibular gland inflammation: Submandibular gland inflammation may be caused by blockage of the submandibular duct or bacterial or viral infection. When the duct becomes blocked, saliva cannot drain properly, causing swelling and pain in the submandibular gland and the formation of a hard lump. It is recommended to take medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefixime capsules as directed by a physician.

4. Sebaceous cyst: Blockage of the sebaceous gland duct along the jawline can prevent the normal drainage of sebum, causing it to accumulate within the gland and form a cyst. It is recommended to apply medications such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment under medical supervision.

5. Boil: Boils are primarily caused by bacterial infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus, affecting hair follicles and surrounding tissue. Once bacteria invade a follicle, they multiply locally and trigger an inflammatory response, forming a hard lump. It is recommended to apply medications such as ichthammol ointment or ofloxacin gel under medical supervision. If the boil has matured and formed pus, it should be incised and drained under medical supervision, followed by wound care and regular dressing changes until the wound heals.

After a hard lump appears along the jawline, it should not be squeezed or scratched to avoid rupture, infection, or worsening of the inflammation. If the lump does not resolve over time, increases in size, or becomes increasingly painful, prompt medical consultation and evaluation are advised.