<s>[INST] 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. [/INST] Hi, Welcome to Chat Doctor forum.  It appears to be a chronic lymph node due to tuberculosis, or something of that sort. By irrigation, it might get infected and grow in size, causing the pain.  I advise you to consult a surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. You may need to get the excision and biopsy done for diagnosis.  Take more of green leafy vegetables, pulses, sprouts, and protein rich foods to have a resistance against infections.  Wishing for a quick and complete recovery. Thank you. </s>