I noticed one day that I had a lump on the back of my neck. I assumed it was a swollen lymph node because it is right where the occipital lymph nodes are. It is very itchy, and there was a small rash on my neck below it. Each day the lump got larger and is spreading, and the rash got worse. I tried taking some antibiotics, but the next day the rash had spread from the back of my neck to my collarbone. Does anyone know what this is or what I need to do for it?

Where did the antibiotics come from?

Go to the doctor and get this checked out. We cannot see you or diagnose you via the Internet. You need a real-life medical professional to do that.

The antibiotics came from a previous doctor visit. I don't have insurance, nor the money to see a doctor. I know I can't be diagnosed over the internet, but I was wondering if anyone else had anything like this or knew anything to help it.

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Originally Posted by jane320

The antibiotics came from a previous doctor visit. I don't have insurance, nor the money to see a doctor. I know I can't be diagnosed over the internet, but I was wondering if anyone else had anything like this or knew anything to help it.

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If you are in the U.S. you can go to an ER or a walk-in clinic (preferable, less wait time and more personal care). Medicaid will cover the cost of the exam and treatment. Don't take antibiotics that were given to you for some other problem.

The lump, the rash, the itching, and the fact that it's getting worse would tell me to get it checked out asap.

As well you shouldn't have antibiotics left over from a previous visit. If you get antibiotics you take them ALL. Don't take them until you feel the infections is over and save the rest for later. That is how antibiotic resistant bacteria get created.

If you get pills you take them ALL. No questions asked. At all.

I have recently found out that it was shingles. I'm on an antibiotic now, but the pain is very severe. But anyway, thank you for the help.