Swollen Lymph Node Behind Ear

Swelling of the lymph nodes is often the sign of an infection, which can be bacterial, viral or fungal. This write-up provides information on what causes swelling of the lymph nodes that are located behind the ear, along with the associated symptoms, and treatment options.

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and ducts, that are responsible for bringing interstitial fluid (fluid that exists outside the blood vessels) back into the circulatory system. The lymph nodes are a part of this system, and are associated with the filtration of lymph and production of antibodies. They also produce macrophages, a type of phagocytes that engulf and digest debris and microorganisms. Thus, they defend the body against infectious agents like viruses and bacteria, and get rid of toxins as well as particulate matter.

A lymph node or gland is usually a small bean-shaped lump of tissue, that contain white blood cells. They are present throughout the body, singly or in groups, and each group is concerned with draining a particular area of the body. Groups of lymph nodes can be found in the neck, groin, behind the ears, and under the armpits. The lymph nodes that are more likely to be affected by lymphadenopathy (swelling of the lymph nodes), are those found under the armpits, neck, groin, under the chin or jaw, and around the ears.

Ear Lymph Nodes

Two groups of lymph nodes can be found around the ears, one group is located in front of each ear, and the other can be found behind the ears. The group of lymph nodes found in front of the ears is known as preauricular nodes, while the group found behind the ears are the posterior auricular lymph nodes.

Causes of Enlarged Lymph Nodes

▶▶ In general, lymph nodes enlarge when our body is fighting an infection, which can be localized or systemic. When a person suffers from an infection, the lymph nodes increase the production of antibodies in order to destroy the infectious agents. But, in the process, the lymph nodes of some areas may enlarge. Localized infection causes lymph nodes of that particular area to swell, while systemic infection can manifest in swollen lymph glands throughout the body.

▶▶ Swollen lymph nodes behind the ear, in particular, can be associated with an eye infection, upper respiratory infection, or an infection around the scalp. Ear infections can be another reason behind the enlargement of lymph nodes located around the ears and neck. Sometimes, injury to the lymph nodes can also cause them to enlarge.

▶▶ Lymph nodes can swell due to diseases like common cold and flu. These conditions can cause swelling of several lymph nodes, but more commonly, the lymph nodes located on either side of the neck and under the jaw, along with those found behind the ears.

▶▶ German measles is caused by the rubella virus, and this viral infection is known to produce a distinctive red or pink rash that first appears on the face, and then spreads to the trunk, arms and legs. In addition to skin rash, one can develop swollen and tender lymph nodes behind the ears, back of the neck, and at the base of the skull, due to this viral infection.

▶▶ Generalized swelling of the lymph nodes throughout the body may have an association with conditions like HIV infection or AIDS, and fungal and parasitic infections. An allergic reaction to certain substances, medicines, or food, may also cause the lymph nodes of different areas to enlarge.

▶▶ Sometimes, this swelling can be associated with cancer. It can be the result of an accumulation of cancerous or malignant cells inside the lymph nodes. More commonly, lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes), and Hodgkin's lymphoma (cancer of the lymph tissues) can cause enlargement of the nodes. Apart from lymphoma, leukemia (blood cancer), and throat cancer can cause lymph node enlargement as well.

▶▶ Other possible causes of swollen glands or lymph nodes include, shingles, an abscessed tooth, strep throat, herpes, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. Immune system disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, mononucleosis, measles, tuberculosis, and cat scratch fever, are some of the less-common causes of lymph node swelling.

Associated Symptoms

The symptoms that accompany an enlarged lymph node can vary to a great extent, depending upon the actual causes. Nevertheless, some of the common symptoms that one can experience with the swollen glands are:
Pain and tenderness, which can be felt when pressure is applied on the swollen nodes.
Fever, which is a sign of an infection.
Problem in swallowing due to painful swollen nodes.
Earache, if the swelling is caused by an infection or injury to the nodes.
Redness and warmth in the area where the nodes are swollen.
Runny nose and sore throat (if the swelling is associated with an infection of the upper respiratory tract).
Some swollen lymph nodes are soft, while others can be hard and rubbery. Soft lymph nodes that can be moved easily can indicate an infection or inflammation. But, hard and rubbery nodes that do not move and don't result in any pain, may be associated with an underlying disease that needs medical attention. Lymph nodes that are growing in size also calls for proper evaluation by a health care practitioner.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A detailed study of the swollen nodes is usually carried out by the physician, in order to find out the actual cause. A physical examination commonly involves the study of the texture and size of the node. Sometimes, an X-ray is also taken out to determine the nature of the swelling. The treatment will vary depending on the cause:
The treatment of a bacterial infection usually involves the administration of antibiotics.
In severe cases, intravenous administration of antibiotic drugs might be required.
If a person has developed an allergic reaction, doctors would recommend the use of antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Painkillers would be prescribed if the swelling is accompanied by pain.
In case of autoimmune diseases, the use of immunosuppressants may be recommended by the physician.
Once the infection has been resolved, the affected lymph node will shrink back to its original size. If the swelling persists for a long time, then the doctor might conduct a CT scan or a lymph node biopsy to rule out medical conditions like cancer or lymphoma. Extensive treatment would be required if a person is diagnosed with cancer.