Skin growths usually are harmless, though they should be monitored for changes that could indicate more serious complications. Skin lumps that easily roll under your touch and are soft are called lipomas and typically are benign, according to the National Institutes of Health's Medline Plus service. A flat bump that appears suddenly and develops over a period of 24 to 48 hours may be the result of an infection or an injury, especially if it is hot and painful.
Considerations
Among the elderly, according to Merck, flat skin bumps are common and may include age spots, cherry angiomas and moles. The bumps may grow but they usually do not spread to other parts of the body. Seniors should get their skin checked regularly for new flat bumps, as they can indicate the early stages of skin cancer. While most growths are benign, occasionally the flat bumps can develop into malignant cancer cells. Skin cancer can strike any area of the body.
Features
You should monitor any new flat bumps before seeking medical attention. According to Medline Plus, your doctor will need to know the history of the skin condition to make a proper diagnosis. Your input could help the doctor avoid unnecessary biopsies or blood tests to determine the cause of the bump. Keep track of when you first noticed the bump and what you were doing at the time it appeared. Tell your doctor if you have any similar bumps in other areas and what other symptoms you may be experiencing.
Types
When fluid develops under the skin, various types of bumps can develop, according to Medline Plus. Cysts can form anywhere on the body and may be filled with pus, air or other fluids. Cysts are common and usually result from an infection or clogged gland. Painful bumps called boils are fungal infections that develop around hair follicles and the surrounding skin. The pain increases as the fluid builds up. An abscess occurs when infected fluid builds up under the skin and becomes inflamed and swollen.
Effects
Most bumps respond to home remedies and time, but you should seek medical attention if other symptoms emerge. According to the Family Doctor, for example, insect bites may appear as a collection of flat bumps that itch for a time and can be treated with ice and over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams. If you become dizzy or have trouble breathing however, you may be undergoing a serious allergic reaction. Flat bumps that appear suddenly and are accompanied by swollen lips may indicate a case of hives that has triggered an allergy to certain medications or indicates the presence of a serious infection.
Size
Large flat bumps that don't itch or cause any other side effects may indicate the presence of warts, according to Family Doctor. Warts commonly appear on the hands and feet and can be treated effectively with over-the-counter medications. You can also remove warts by freezing them off. Warts that develop in the genital area are the result of a sexually transmitted disease and are caused by a viral infection in your system. While the flat bumps can be surgically removed, you will continue to carry the virus.
