Whether or not a lump hurts to touch depends on the cause and nature of the lump.
According to the reference material, most lumps are benign and harmless. However, the reference indicates that a lump or swelling that appears suddenly (over 24 to 48 hours) and is painful is usually caused by an injury or an infection. Therefore, some lumps do hurt to touch.
Here's a breakdown:
Painful Lumps
- Cause: Often due to injury or infection.
- Appearance: May appear suddenly (within 24-48 hours).
- Example: An abscess from an infection.
Painless Lumps
- Cause: Often benign, such as lipomas or cysts.
- Feel: Soft and roll easily under the fingers.
- Harmless: Typically not cancerous.
In summary, whether a lump is painful to touch is a key factor in determining its possible cause. While many lumps are painless and benign, a sudden, painful lump warrants further investigation.
