What Does Pain Behind The Ear In A 5 Year Old Suggest?

Posted on Tue, 5 May 2015

Question: My son is 5 years old.
Off late he has been complaining of some pain behind his right ear. I showed it to his pediatrician - but nothing was found. His ear track was clear and the spot where the pain is, apparently dint have anything that can cause pain. The doctor also mentioned that since the pain was minor, it may not be anything major.

However, I'm a little concerned and would like to get a view of what it is.
He only says it pains a few times in a day... sometimes once is 2-3 days only. He says it doesn't pain much.. he doesn't wriggle in pain.
Would you be aware of anything that could be the cause of this?

What should be my next course of action on this?

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Arun (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
could be a lymph node enlargement

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing to us.

The usual causes of pain behind the ear are
1. Wax in the ear.
2. Ear infections.
3. Throat infection.
4. Lymph node enlargement due to ear nose throat or scalp infection.
If your doctor has checked everything and ruled out these no need to worry. It is possible that any of these might have developed now after your doctors visit.

As pain persists it is better to consult with an Ear Nose and Throat surgeon to rule out the possibilities I mentioned earlier. If all are negative, don't worry. It could just be a muscle pain.
In my opinion, it should settle soon.

Wishing your child good health.
Regards
Dr Arun

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