Swelling Behind The Ear and Other Symptoms to Watch Out for

Swelling behind the ear may appear suddenly or unconsciously. No need to panic excessively over the condition. The emergence of a lump (nodule) or swelling behind the ear is generally not dangerous, but if it is proven to be caused by infection, then further treatment is needed. There are several possible causes for swelling behind the ear. Some of the swelling behind the ear is caused by a virus or bacteria. Usually it can be triggered by a sore throat. Apart from behind the ear, swelling can also occur in other parts of the ear or around the face. There are also possible causes of swelling due to abscesses that arise when the body is infected. Generally, swollen locations are painful and warm to the touch. Pus arising from white blood cells will try to fight germs that cause infection. Swelling behind the ear can also be caused by swollen lymph nodes. Apart from behind the ear, swelling due to this condition can also occur under the jaw or in other parts of the ear. This generally occurs when a cold or an infection occurs in the body. In addition to the above infections, middle ear infections or otitis media can trigger swelling behind the ear. This infection can be caused by a virus or bacteria, which can generally be treated with antibiotics. If otitis media is not treated properly, it can possibly lead to complications such as mastoiditis, which is a more serious infection around the spinal ear. This is due to bacteria that spread from the middle ear to the mastoid bone. Mastoiditis can generally be characterized by swelling behind the ear accompanied by headaches, fever, anxiety, fatigue, discharge from the ear to hearing loss.

Watch for Accompanying Symptoms

Swelling behind the ear can be checked at home. Touch with your hands to find out if the swelling behind the ear feels hard or soft, whether it hurts to the touch or not. In addition, watch out for other symptoms that accompany the swelling behind the ear. Immediately consult a doctor if swelling behind the ear accompanied by fever, excessive sweating at night, weight loss, and sore throat making it difficult to swallow or breathe. Other symptoms that accompany the swelling behind the ear to watch out for example headaches, discharge from the ear, hearing loss, or other symptoms of infection appear. Consultation with a doctor is also needed if the swelling behind the ear causes discomfort or unbearable pain. The doctor will then check the location around the ear and other physical examinations. Generally from the examination, the doctor can determine what is the cause of swelling behind the ear. Then determine the appropriate treatment measures to overcome them, while preventing long-term effects that may occur. Make sure the cause behind the swelling can be identified so that it can be treated appropriately. Consult with your doctor for the type of treatment needed properly.