Concerns About Essential Oil Smell and Ear Bumps in Infants

Smelling essential oils behind the ears?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I apologize for bothering you, but I have a couple of questions.
Recently, while bathing my child (around 10 months old), I sometimes notice a scent similar to essential oils coming from the exhaust vent when someone upstairs is taking a shower.
Is there any connection to this? I always take my child out of the bathroom as soon as I smell it.
Additionally, I've noticed a hard white structure that resembles bone behind my child's ears (on both sides).
Is this normal? Thank you.

Zhang Di, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/13

Dr. Lin Yishou reply Pediatrics

Dear Parent,
Regarding essential oils, due to the specialized nature of the topic, it may be necessary to consult a toxicologist.
As for the ear issue, it is difficult to provide a clear description in writing.
We kindly ask that you take your child to a pediatrician or an otolaryngologist for an in-person consultation and examination.
Thank you again for your message.

Reply Date: 2016/10/13

More Info

When it comes to concerns regarding the smell of essential oils and the presence of hard bumps behind an infant's ears, there are several important factors to consider.
Firstly, regarding the smell of essential oils that you notice while bathing your child, it's crucial to understand that essential oils can have varying effects, especially on infants. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can be potent and may contain various chemical compounds. While some essential oils are safe for adults, they can pose risks to infants due to their sensitive skin and developing respiratory systems. Inhalation of certain essential oils can lead to respiratory irritation or allergic reactions. If you are smelling essential oils from the ventilation system, it is advisable to ensure that the source of the smell is safe and that it is not affecting your child. If you have concerns about the air quality or the presence of potentially harmful substances, it might be worth consulting with a pediatrician or an environmental health specialist.

As for the hard bumps you have observed behind your child's ears, it is essential to have these examined by a healthcare professional. While it is not uncommon for children to have small lymph nodes in this area, which can feel firm or hard, any new or unusual growths should be evaluated. These bumps could be benign, such as swollen lymph nodes due to a minor infection, or they could indicate other underlying conditions that require medical attention. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to the health of your child.

In summary, while the smell of essential oils can be concerning, especially in a young child, the most prudent course of action is to remove your child from the environment where the smell is present and consult with a healthcare provider if you have ongoing concerns. Similarly, the hard bumps behind your child's ears warrant a professional evaluation to rule out any serious issues. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help monitor your child's health and development, ensuring that any potential problems are addressed promptly.

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