Pain and Swelling Near the Ear: When to Seek Help

The lower right side of the head (the area near the ear)?

Hello Doctor: I haven't had any injuries, but I often experience headaches due to shoulder pain (I have seen a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner).
Yesterday at work, I accidentally touched the painful area and discovered a lump that isn't soft; it hurts quite a bit when pressed.
Later that evening, I thought maybe I had bumped into something, so I rubbed it, but now it hurts a lot even when I don't touch it.
I'm really worried...
If I need to see a clinic, should I go to a dermatologist or is it okay to see a general ENT specialist? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Mia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/11

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Mia / 34 years old / Female ENT Department Wishing you a speedy recovery Taoyuan Hospital Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong

Reply Date: 2019/12/11

More Info

When experiencing pain and swelling near the ear, it is crucial to understand the underlying causes and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems that you have developed a painful, swollen area near your ear without any known trauma. This situation can arise from various conditions, including infections, inflammation, or even referred pain from other areas, such as the neck or jaw.

Given that you have mentioned shoulder pain leading to headaches, it is possible that the pain near your ear could be related to muscle tension or referred pain from the neck. However, the presence of swelling and localized pain raises the concern for other potential issues, such as an infection (like otitis externa or otitis media), a cyst, or even lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) due to an underlying infection.

In terms of which specialist to consult, it would be advisable to start with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. They are well-equipped to evaluate ear-related issues and can determine if the swelling is related to an ear condition or if it is due to another cause. If the ENT specialist rules out ear-related problems, they may refer you to a dermatologist if the swelling appears to be a skin issue or to another specialist based on their findings.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your symptoms:
1. Pain and Swelling: The pain and swelling you are experiencing could be due to inflammation or infection. Conditions like external ear canal infections (otitis externa) can cause localized pain and swelling. Similarly, middle ear infections (otitis media) can also lead to referred pain in the outer ear.

2. Lymph Nodes: Swollen lymph nodes near the ear can indicate an infection in the head or neck region. If you have had any recent infections (like a cold or throat infection), this could be a contributing factor.

3. Muscle Tension: Given your history of shoulder pain and headaches, muscle tension in the neck and shoulder area can lead to referred pain in the ear region. This is often exacerbated by stress or poor posture.

4. Self-Care: While waiting for your appointment, you can apply a warm compress to the affected area to help alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also provide relief.

5. When to Seek Immediate Help: If you experience additional symptoms such as fever, drainage from the ear, significant changes in hearing, or if the swelling continues to worsen, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while it is understandable to feel concerned about the pain and swelling near your ear, starting with an ENT specialist is the best course of action. They can conduct a thorough examination and determine the appropriate treatment based on their findings. If necessary, they will guide you to the right specialist for further evaluation. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek help.

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