Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Fever, Swollen Lymph Nodes Under Right Ear, Headache, Cold, Viral Sinusitis. Healing Time?
I went to the doctor 11 days ago for a fever of 99.6 and a swollen lymph node under my right ear. The week before this, I suffered from a severe headache and a cold . The doctor prescribed me steriods, no antibiotics and told me I had viral sinutitis. The lymph node is still a little swollen, but better. I still have a low grade fever. How long does it take to fight off a virus and when should the lymph node go back to normal? Thank you.
Tue, 27 Aug 2013
hello and welcome to HCM,
If it is over one week and your nodes have still not reduced either in size or symptoms then you need to seriously consider consulting an ENT who can assess your further treatment. Just keep in mind the following considerations:
1. A viral sinusitis will usually not cause a lymph node swelling.
2. In all probability you may have had an acute episode of lymphadenitis which can be due to many causes the commonest is bacterial though
3. Any small infections in the head and neck region can cause the swelling and this usually goes in a week or two when the primary cause is treated properly.
4. If the swelling persists then you may need to undergo further tests starting with full blood profiling, then an FNAC if necessary and finally biospy
In all probability the swelling will go in a few days but it pays to be safe
Take care
Dr Sriram Nathan
If it is over one week and your nodes have still not reduced either in size or symptoms then you need to seriously consider consulting an ENT who can assess your further treatment. Just keep in mind the following considerations:
1. A viral sinusitis will usually not cause a lymph node swelling.
2. In all probability you may have had an acute episode of lymphadenitis which can be due to many causes the commonest is bacterial though
3. Any small infections in the head and neck region can cause the swelling and this usually goes in a week or two when the primary cause is treated properly.
4. If the swelling persists then you may need to undergo further tests starting with full blood profiling, then an FNAC if necessary and finally biospy
In all probability the swelling will go in a few days but it pays to be safe
Take care
Dr Sriram Nathan
I find this answer helpful
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Lymphadenopathy
Loading Online Doctors....