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What Causes A Painful Lump Behind The Left Ear In A RA Patient?

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Posted on Mon, 9 May 2016
Question: I have been sick with a cold, pretty bad one. Thursday I noticed a lump behind my left ear about the size of a ping pong ball and some tenderness and pain. I suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis so take Norco for pain and that seemed to relieve the pain and I thought the swelling was going away. I read that it could be a swollen lymph gland and the situation was right and the pain was less, then this morning woke up and swelling was about the same but pain is worse and the area is itching terribly. Took my usual meds and the Norco.Does this warrant a trip to ER?
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Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Yes,it's time to go to ER or visit ENT specialist as soon as possible...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I have gone through your medical history carefully and understood your concerns.

Going through a very bad cold is commonly associated with swollen neck lymph nodes and ear infection.

The presence of the swollen lymph node behind your left ear is suggestive for possible ear infection. As the pain is not getting better, I advise to consult with ENT specialist as soon as possible. If you cannot manage to visit ENT specialist, then, go to ER as you might need prescription antibiotics and ear drops.

For the moment, continue taking acetaminophen for the pain alternating with ibuprofen; keep well hydrated (water, juice, tea) until you see the doctor.

Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana
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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 7312 Questions

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What Causes A Painful Lump Behind The Left Ear In A RA Patient?

Brief Answer: Yes,it's time to go to ER or visit ENT specialist as soon as possible... Detailed Answer: Hi, I have gone through your medical history carefully and understood your concerns. Going through a very bad cold is commonly associated with swollen neck lymph nodes and ear infection. The presence of the swollen lymph node behind your left ear is suggestive for possible ear infection. As the pain is not getting better, I advise to consult with ENT specialist as soon as possible. If you cannot manage to visit ENT specialist, then, go to ER as you might need prescription antibiotics and ear drops. For the moment, continue taking acetaminophen for the pain alternating with ibuprofen; keep well hydrated (water, juice, tea) until you see the doctor. Wish fast recovery! Dr.Albana