question: Hi. I have a lump on my neck which I informed my GP of three years ago, and after a short examination was informed it was gristle. It was painful when prodded but not so otherwise. Over the last five months it seems to have grown and put pressure on the left side of my neck, and is also a lot more painful, without touching. It feels as though it is trapping the tendons in my neck and also causes pain to my ear and left forehead.