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What Does A Hard Knot Behind Ear Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 26 Sep 2014

Question: I have this hard knot growing on the back of my ear its tender . . I recently just got over the flu I had a 48 virus I guess and my tonsils swole up and had puss pockets on them but went away all on its on in 2 days. its warm to the touch but if I pull my ear forward I can feel the lump. what could this be?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (46 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Acute post-auricular lymphadenitis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query. I will try my best to help you with this problem.

After going through the history I do feel the swelling behind the ear could be infected post-auricular lymph node. The pain is due to enlargement of the dormant lymph node secondary to the infection.

Lymph nodes are like policemen in the body, which props up to indicate that there is an active infection going on in the surrounding region. In the absence of middle ear infection, the post auricular lymph node is usually noticed when there is active infection in the scalp (such as folliculitis, dandruff, etc.) or the ear pinna.

Do not worry! With appropriate medicines you will definitely feel better. Consult your doctor and request him to start on Broad spectrum antibiotics such as a combination of amoxicillin & clavulanic acid or cefuroxime. Meanwhile, try taking OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac which can provide quick relief from the pain.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (9 minutes later)

This is what is behind my ear its a hard knot in it . . I had the flu for like 48 hrs about a week ago my throat swelled up I had puss pockets on my tonsils. . .when I was younger I always popped up with strep throat now I just get tonsillitis. . .I have a slight ear ache and the area around the lump is tender its right in the crease where my ear folds . . . what is this

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Post-auricular lymphadenitis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

I have gone through the image and I would adhere to the response I gave in the previous session.

I wish you good luck and good health.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj