Finding a new lump anywhere on the body may be really frightening.
It's normal to worry about a lump, located behind your ear, especially if it causes pain and discomfort.
We have some good news for you: in vast majority of cases these bumps are innocuous and don't lead to serious complications.
However sometimes they require taking medications, like in the case of infection.
Touch swollen area behind the ear and try to recognize, whether it is soft or tender, painful or not. It's also very important to pay attention on additional symptom, like fever, ear discharge, headache etc.
Some of the bumps refer to skin issues, while others are related to swollen lymph nodes.
It's worth not ignoring new formations and not trying to treat them by your own. Consult with medical professional to identify underlying reason for the lump and get optimal treatment, if needed.
Specialists say that most lumps, located behind the ear, are caused by any of these conditions:
#1. Lymphadenopathy "“ lymph nodes are essential components of the immune system. They are located all over your body, including the neck, armpits, groin and head. If foreign agents, such as viruses or bacteria, enter your body, lymph nodes become enlarged. Swollen nodes behind the ear commonly occur because of skin or ear infection, but may be also a symptom of infectious mononucleosis, measles and even HIV infection.
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#2. Acne "“ if dead skin cells and sebum clog the skin pores, pimples and bumps develop. Sometimes these breakouts may get infected and inflamed that leads to their enlargement. In severe cases pimples may turn into the acne cysts. Acne-related lumps are painful, especially when you press on them.
#3. Lipoma "“ this non-cancerous overgrowth may appear anywhere on the body. Lipoma is a soft, painless bump that consists of fatty tissue. They are completely harmless and can be left untreated, if don't cause cosmetic concern.
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#4. Mastoiditis "“ mastoid is a bone structure, situated behind the ear. It contains air cells, which could be infected. This often occurs as a result of poorly-managed middle ear infection. Mastoiditis is more common among children, but can also happen in adults. Other symptoms of this disease include ear discharge, high fever, fatigue and headache.
#5. Abscess "“ once infection invades into your body, the immune system reacts, sending white blood cells to the affected area. Sometimes that may result in developing pus-contained formation, called abscess. It's commonly painful and hot to the touch.
Depending on the results of examination, your doctor may recommend you leaving a lump and waiting for its resolving, or may prescribe you antibiotics to treat bacterial infection. Sometimes surgery may be the best option to get rid of a bump under you ear.
Together with professional, you can find the best cure method and prevent possible complications.
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The BetterMe Team wants you and those close to you to live a healthy, happy life! Your health is a valuable thing; look after your body and your mind so that you can live your life to the fullest "“ Remember you only get one!
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Credit: BetterMe
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