Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped organs, about 1 cm in size, located throughout the body. They are part of the lymphatic system and work in conjunction with the immune system to fight off pathogens. The functions of the lymph nodes include filtering the lymph and are characterized by the presence of white blood cells, which are useful in fighting diseases. The lymph nodes behind the ear are located on the temporal bone and under the posterior auricular muscle. If they are swollen, you can feel them behind the ear with your fingers.

What causes swollen lymph nodes behind the ear? A swollen lymph node at the back of the ear may be a sign that there is an infection in the affected area. You may suffer from a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in the ear, throat or eye. The infections that may affect the lymph nodes behind the ear are:

• Bacterial infection of the pharynx, tonsils or larynx;
• Gum inflammation, tooth abscess;
• Infection in the ear, i.e. otitis media;
• Fungal infections in or around the head that cause itching of the scalp or hair loss;
• AIDS and HIV;
• Mononucleosis;
• Rheumatoid arthritis.

Swollen lymph nodes behind the ear can be temporary or chronic. Symptoms can be different and vary in severity depending on the cause, the most common symptoms of swollen lymph nodes are:

• Swelling;
• Possible pain on palpation and pain behind the ear;
• Reddened and overheated skin.

Other symptoms associated with swollen lymph nodes behind the ear may occur in the mouth or throat, like cough, sore throat, jaw pain and toothache. In addition, fever, fatigue, and ear pain may occur.

A swollen lymph node behind only the right or left ear. A swollen lymph node behind one ear can be caused by several localized conditions:

• Ear infection: An infection in the ear, such as otitis media or otitis externa, can cause nearby lymph nodes to swell;
• Skin or scalp infection: Infections on the scalp or skin, such as dermatitis or fungal infections, can lead to swelling of lymph nodes behind the ear;
• Dental issues: Infections or abscesses in the teeth or gums can cause lymph nodes near the affected area to swell;
• Localized skin conditions: Acne, cysts, or insect bites on the side of the head or neck can result in a swollen lymph node behind the ear.

If the swelling persists for more than a few weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, weight loss, or night sweats, it’s important to seek medical advice.

In most cases, swollen lymph nodes resolve on their own within a few days/weeks without complications. If treatment is required, a physician must first determine the cause of the swollen lymph node.

For an acute infection, anti-inflammatory drugs (such as NSAIDs), warm compresses and rest accompanied by antibiotics, when necessary, are often sufficient.

Lymph node abscesses may require surgical drainage. Swollen lymph nodes caused by inflammation or autoimmune disorders are treated with anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs, cortisone or other types of immunomodulators can be used.