Sudden Swelling Under the Ear: Causes and When to Seek Help

Sudden swelling of the parotid gland?

On March 15th at 3:15 AM, I experienced mild pain and noticed that the area under my ear suddenly swelled, measuring approximately 2 cm in width, 3 cm in length, and 1 cm in height, with a slight tenderness upon touch.
By around noon, the swelling had reduced by about one-third, and by the next day at noon, it was almost completely gone with no pain.
Could you please tell me what condition this might be, and whether I should go to the hospital for an examination? Which department should I visit? Thank you.

Cheng Rui, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/17

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, you may have mumps or another condition.
It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist.

Reply Date: 2022/03/17

More Info

Sudden swelling under the ear can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, the swelling appeared suddenly, was mildly painful, and resolved relatively quickly. This pattern can be associated with several conditions, some of which may require medical attention.

Possible Causes of Sudden Swelling Under the Ear
1. Lymphadenopathy: The most common cause of swelling in this area is swollen lymph nodes, which can occur due to infections (viral or bacterial). The lymph nodes in the neck and under the jaw can become enlarged in response to infections, such as a cold, flu, or dental issues.

2. Salivary Gland Issues: The swelling could also be related to the salivary glands, particularly the parotid gland, which is located near the ear. Conditions like sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary gland) or a blocked salivary duct can cause swelling and discomfort.

3. Infections: Infections such as mumps, which specifically affects the salivary glands, can lead to swelling under the ear. Other infections, including skin infections or abscesses, could also be a factor.

4. Allergic Reactions: Allergies can cause localized swelling, which may be due to insect bites, food allergies, or contact dermatitis.

5. Cysts or Tumors: While less common, sebaceous cysts or benign tumors can also present as swelling in this area. These are usually painless but can become inflamed or infected.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your swelling resolved quickly and was not accompanied by severe pain, fever, or other systemic symptoms, it may not be an immediate cause for concern. However, you should consider seeking medical attention if:
- The swelling returns or persists.

- You develop additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or significant pain.

- You notice any changes in your ability to swallow or speak.

- There is redness, warmth, or drainage from the area, which may indicate an infection.

Recommended Medical Specialties
If you decide to seek medical attention, you would typically want to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. They can evaluate the swelling, perform necessary examinations, and determine if any imaging or further testing is required. If the swelling is suspected to be related to dental issues, a visit to a dentist or oral surgeon may also be appropriate.

Conclusion
In summary, while the sudden swelling under your ear could be due to a variety of benign causes, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If the swelling recurs or you develop additional symptoms, seeking medical advice from an ENT specialist would be prudent. They can provide a thorough examination and appropriate management based on your specific situation. In the meantime, maintaining good hydration and monitoring for any changes can be beneficial.

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