What Causes Swelling On Neck And Lower Part Of Head?

Posted on Mon, 25 Apr 2016

Question: Hello, Im concerned because Im experiencing symptoms of swelling behind the lower part of my head and the neck. I had a sinus congestion last year in which the left side of my face became very swollen and painful. These two symptoms have been since one year ago. I am worry because the lower head and neck pain is getting painful and it also prevents me from freely moving my neck freely. I will appreciate yours response. XXXXX

Thank you. Please send me your reponse by email.

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It can be due to lymph node swelling.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query. Swelling on neck and lower part of head can be due to lymph node swelling. This can be due to upper respiratory tract or sinus infections.

Hot fomentation. Taking over the counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or paracetamol , chewable vitamin C will be helpful. Take warm fluids like tea with lemon and honey, warm chicken soup with pepper etc.

If there is no improvement then you may need antibiotic therapy for the main condition which is infection of upper respiratory tract.

Let me know if anything not clear. I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (4 hours later)

Thank you for your response.
If it is the lymph nodes swelling which it never happened before, would it indicate a serious condition?
Thank you so much.

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No it is not a serious condition.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome again.

Thank you for your follow up query.

This is not a serious condition. Some viral and bacterial infection can cause this. This also will get resolved along with subsiding infection. If the swelling lasts longer then it should be investigated. in such case ultrasound examination of the area will be needed.

Usually NSAIDs like ibuprofen and hot fomentations will be helpful. Avoid high pillows. Massaging with gels containing NSAIDs like diclofenac (voltaren gel) is also good.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

Thank you so much.

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome.

Detailed Answer:
You are welcome.

Let me know if you have any follow up or further queries.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

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