Article by Hearing Partners, contributed by Noor Atikah Atan, Clinical Audiologist at Hearing Partners
Discovering a lump behind your ear can be alarming. It may be painful, tender, or just a small bump, but it may cause you to wonder if it’s something serious.
In this article, we’ll explore what a lump behind the ear could mean, the possible causes, and available treatment options. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about this topic.
Why Is the Back of My Ears Swollen?
There are several reasons why a lump might form behind the ear. Understanding the underlying cause is essential in determining whether medical attention is needed.
Otitis media
A lump behind the ear could be caused by otitis media, which is a middle ear infection. This condition happens when an infection leads to inflammation and fluid buildup behind the eardrum. In some cases, otitis media heals on its own without the need for specific treatment.
However, if you notice signs, such as ear pain, fever, or reduced hearing, it’s best to see a doctor for a proper check-up to prevent any complications.
Mastoiditis
Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone—the bone located just behind your ear that plays a part in the hearing process. It often develops when a middle ear infection (otitis media) is not treated quickly, allowing bacteria to spread from the middle ear to the mastoid bone.
One possible sign of mastoiditis is a noticeable lump behind the ear, usually accompanied by ear pain. Other common symptoms to look out for include:
- Fever
- Ear discharge
- Hearing loss in the affected ear
- Pus leaking out from the lump
- Headache
Acne
Acne occurs when skin pores get clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. While it’s common on the face and back, acne can also appear behind the ear. If the bump is painful or doesn’t go away, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for a proper check-up and treatment to help it heal and prevent further discomfort.
Abscess
Abscesses are pus-filled lumps that form when your body is fighting off an infection. When bacteria enter a certain area, like behind the ear, your immune system sends white blood cells to fight them. The result is a build-up of bacteria and dead white blood cells, which creates a lump filled with pus.
These lumps often feel warm, painful to the touch, and may be surrounded by redness. If you notice one, it’s best to have it checked by a doctor to prevent it from worsening.
Lipomas
A lipoma is a harmless, fatty lump that can form under the skin, including behind the ear. While the exact cause is still unclear, it’s believed that genetics or physical trauma may play a role in its development. Lipomas are usually soft, painless, and slow-growing, but if you notice any changes or discomfort, it’s a good idea to get them checked by a doctor.
Swelling of lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and are found in many areas of the body, including just behind the ears. When these lymph nodes react to an infection or illness (like a cold), they can swell and form a noticeable lump in that area.
Swollen lymph nodes are common in children, though adults can experience them too. They are often accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Red, warm skin behind the ear
- Pain in the lump area
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
Sebaceous cyst
A sebaceous cyst is a harmless lump that forms when the sebaceous glands get blocked. These cysts often appear around or behind the ear and are usually painless, so they often go unnoticed. However, in some cases, they can cause discomfort. If that happens, it’s a good idea to have them checked and possibly removed by a doctor.
Cancer
One potential cause of a lump behind the ear that should not be overlooked is nasopharyngeal cancer. This type of cancer is often hard to detect in its early stages because it usually does not cause noticeable symptoms right away.
As the condition progresses, a lump may appear behind the ear or in the neck along with other signs such as:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Hearing loss (usually in one ear)
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Headaches
- Blocked nose
- Unexplained weight loss
While it is uncommon for lumps behind the ear to be cancerous, you should seek prompt medical evaluation if you notice any of the above symptoms.
When Should I See a Doctor for a Lump Behind My Ear?
If there is a lump behind your ear, see a doctor for a professional diagnosis to rule out any serious issues. Additionally, see a doctor immediately if you notice the following, as it could signal a more serious underlying condition.
- A lump that is growing quickly
- A lump that has moved
- A lump filled with fluid or pus
- A lump that is hard
- Accompanied by other symptoms, such as weight loss, night sweats, fever, ear pain, and discharge from the ear
- Sudden severe pain in the area
- Experiencing hearing difficulties
How to Get Rid of the Lump Behind My Ear
The treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. Here’s how different types of lumps are typically managed:
| Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Otitis media | |
| Mastoiditis | |
| Acne | |
| Abscess | For a small abscess: For a large abscess: |
| Lipomas | |
| Swelling of lymph nodes | |
| Sebaceous cyst | |
| Cancer |
FAQs About Lump Behind the Ears
Is a lump behind the ear always something serious?
No, it can be caused by acne or an infection, which should resolve within a few weeks. However, a lump behind the ear can also signal a more serious underlying issue. When in doubt, seek a professional diagnosis to rule out any serious conditions.
Are children more prone to getting lumps behind the ear?
Yes, children are more likely to get lumps behind their ears as they are more susceptible to infections, which can result in swollen lymph nodes. Such lumps are often harmless and resolve once the infection clears. If you’re unsure of the cause of the lump, or if the lump is large and persistent, see a doctor for a professional diagnosis.
Noor Atikah Atan is a Clinical Audiologist at Hearing Partners. She has a Bachelor of Audiology with Honours from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and is registered under the Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council MAHPC(AUD)00512. She seeks to make a difference in the lives of her clients by helping them improve their hearing and communication.