Persistent Lump Behind Ear with Recent Pain: Possible ENT Concerns

A lump behind the ear with intermittent sharp pain in the lower left occipital region?

I have had a soft lump behind my ear for nearly three years.
I previously went for an examination but did not have a biopsy.
Recently, I noticed that the lump is about 2 centimeters in size, and I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain near the area just below the left back of my head, but not directly on the lump.
The painful area feels softer compared to the corresponding area on the right side.
I do not smoke or drink alcohol, and I am unsure what might be causing this.

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/07

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, it is recommended that if the lump does not disappear, you should go to a hospital or clinic for examination in order to make a proper assessment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/07

More Info

When dealing with a persistent lump behind the ear accompanied by recent pain, it is essential to consider various potential causes and seek appropriate medical evaluation. The symptoms you describe—a soft lump that has been present for nearly three years, along with intermittent pain near the lump—could indicate several conditions that warrant further investigation by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.

First, it is important to understand that lumps behind the ear can arise from various sources, including lymph nodes, cysts, or even benign tumors. Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other systemic conditions. Given that you have experienced pain in the area, it is possible that the lump could be related to a reactive lymph node, especially if there has been any recent infection or inflammation in the head or neck region.

The fact that the lump has been present for an extended period without significant changes may suggest that it is not an acute issue, but the recent onset of pain is concerning. Pain can indicate that the lump is becoming irritated or that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. It is also worth noting that the pain you feel in the area near the lump, which is softer compared to the symmetrical side, could suggest a neuromuscular issue or referred pain from another structure.

In your case, it is advisable to return to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. An ENT specialist can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better characterize the lump. If there is any suspicion of a more serious condition, a biopsy may be warranted to rule out malignancy or other pathological processes.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider any other symptoms you may have experienced, such as changes in hearing, dizziness, or other neurological symptoms, as these could provide further clues to the underlying issue. If you have had any recent infections, such as a cold or sinus infection, this could also be relevant to your current symptoms.

In summary, while the lump behind your ear may not be immediately alarming, the recent pain and changes in sensation warrant further investigation. An ENT specialist will be able to provide a comprehensive assessment and determine the best course of action. It is always better to err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to changes in your health that persist over time. Seeking timely medical advice will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

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