What does a big lump behind your ear mean?

Lumps behind the ear can have many possible causes, including problems in the skin or bone. Swollen lymph nodes, infections, and certain cancers can also lead to lumps. Most cases of a lump behind the ear do not present a cause for concern, however, and normally resolve without treatment.

Why is my mastoid bone swollen?

Mastoiditis is most often caused by a middle ear infection (acute otitis media). The infection may spread from the ear to the mastoid bone. The bone has a honeycomb-like structure that fills with infected material and may break down. The condition is most common in children.

What does a cyst behind the ear look like?

Earlobe cysts are saclike lumps made of dead skin cells. They look like small, smooth bumps under the skin, similar to a blemish. They vary slightly in color from matching your skin pigmentation to red. Usually they are no bigger than the size of a pea.

How do you treat a cyst behind the ear?

When necessary or desired, treatment usually involves removing the cyst with a simple cut and local anesthetic. Surgical removal may also prevent a cyst from reforming. Otherwise, a doctor can make a small cut in the cyst and drain the contents. This option is quick and simple, but cysts are more likely to return.

How long does it take for swollen lymph nodes to go away?

The swelling is a typical response of the immune system. A lump caused by a swollen lymph node will be soft or flexible. It may be tender to touch, but it is usually not painful. The swelling should go away within 2 to 3 weeks.

What is a mastoid tumor?

Mastoid osteomas are rare, benign bone tumours [1]. They are usually asymptomatic with a chronic course, and present as a hard, painless, retroauricular mass. The diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging, and surgical management is usually justified by cosmetic reasons.

Should I be concerned about a swollen lump behind ear?

Many people think it is nothing to be concerned about, but it is important to understand the reason for a swollen lump behind ear, because while some cases can be minor, others are more serious. Both painless and painful lumps can be small or large, and they can disappear over a few days or weeks without any need for medical attention.

Why do I have a lump behind my left earlobe?

Swollen lymph nodes, infections, and certain cancers can also lead to lumps. Most cases of a lump behind the ear do not present a cause for concern, however, and normally resolve without treatment. There is a range of skin conditions and infections that can cause lumps behind the ear.

What causes swollen lymph nodes behind the ear?

Swelling behind the ear is most commonly caused by swollen lymph nodes or an ear infection caused by bacteria, fungus or a virus. Most individuals with swollen glands behind the ear may also be experiencing pain behind the ear or headaches.

What does it mean when the bone behind your ear is swollen?

Sometimes, however, swelling behind the ear can indicate a serious infection of the mastoid, the bone behind the ear. Infection of the mastoid, called mastoiditis, is dangerous because it can spread to the brain.