Painful lumps behind each ear

[tivoguy26]

In the past day or so I have developed painful lumps behind each ear (2 behind one of them). They are hard and feel like or are against the bone. I have read some older posts here and they almost all seem to say they are nothing to worry about and common. I have against my better judgement read somewhere else that they are not always benign!  (I know, I shouldn't have!).

Have most of you had these and been able to just ride them out without a dr.? Of course I keep thinking the worst.

Funny thing is decades ago as a teen I had one and it was painful for a long time and then the lump stayed for many years.  Probably a few years ago it finally went away. This time they are on both sides.

Anyone who can help me get out of this mental or medical mess?

[tivoguy26]

Also, any suggestions to ease the discomfort? Wife says a warm compress might help but I think if it is cancerous it won't matter anyway? Any ideas??

[SighNoMore]

Why not try the warm compresses and at least see if that helps? Would it give you peace of mind to see a doctor? Have you been sick recently? Any colds, respiratory issues, etc?

[tivoguy26]

Had s slight cold over the holidays. Nothing major although my wife had it much worse. Not sure if the dr would make me feel more comfortable or worse?

[tivoguy26]

I guess what I'm asking if many members have had these and had them not be an indicator of some bad disease.

[tivoguy26]

Getting a little panicky about this again! The lumps have stayed about the same size but now the pain seems to go away for most of the day. Is this a bad sign? I thought I saw that if they were painful it meant I was fighting an infection. I started to feels sick and break into sweats this morning then got chilled. Not sure if that was anxiety from obsessing or not. Anyone suffering from same things? Hate these lumps

[Hohum]

Firstly - nobody can diagnose you over the Internet, so if you're worried, there's no better advice than "Go to your Doctor".

Your lumps sound like lymph nodes responding to infection. The rapid swelling is very normal response to any infection, and this swelling can cause some pain or discomfort. The fact that they just "popped up" a couple of days ago, they are (or were) painful, and you have them on each side of your head in the same place, is highly suggestive of response to infection. Nodes can stay enlarged for weeks or even a month or two post-infection.

In short, I think you're absolutely OK and your immune system is doing its job! If the wait times for your family doc are like mine, it might be a good idea to make an appointment for a week or so, in case you need antibiotics to clear up any infection. I really wouldn't worry about anything sinister at all, however.

Good luck and stay sane!!