Brief Answer:
A local vein inflammation or temporal arteritis needs to be ruled out- further explanations below

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,

I carefully read your query and understand your concern.

A firm blood vessel that is painful and located close to the ear may be due to two main conditions.
Superficial thrombophlebitis is a blockage of the vein, inflammation and a clot being formed there. This generally happens in the legs and is not so common in the neck, head or arms.

Another potential cause that is more common in that area is temporal arteritis. This is an inflammation of the artery in the area above the ear and is generally a condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated soon.
The reason for this is because it may in some cases affect the vision on that side.

It is good you have a doctor's appointment tomorrow. During the physical examination, the doctor will gather a lot of information about the blood vessel you are referring to and will be able to know if further tests are needed. In case your doctor suspects temporal arteritis, he may give you a high dose of steroids and also may check your ERS rate in blood.

To conclude:
- two main conditions can be considered and should be ruled out with a good physical examination: thrombophlebitis of the local vein and temporal arteritis
- it is important to have the examination soon so it is good you are seeing your doctor tomorrow, and according to the findings, further steps will have to be decided (oral steroids and check of ERS levels if temporal arteritis is suspected- this will help preserve the vision in that eye).
- Both these conditions generally have a good outcome if treated appropriately.
- Meanwhile, you can use aspirin to help with the pain as it may also have a favorable effect on both conditions mentioned. Take it after food to protect your stomach.

I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician

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Brief Answer:
It is a pleasure

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome back,

It is a pleasure to be able to help you. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.

Kind regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician

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