The diagnosis of a bump behind the ear | Bump behind the ear – What to do?

The diagnosis of a bump behind the ear

For the diagnosis of a bump behind the ear, the medical consultation as well as the targeted physical examination are decisive. The doctor will first ask questions such as how long the bump has existed, whether it causes pain and whether there are other complaints. Questions about previous illnesses and constantly taken medication can also be important.

During the examination, the doctor will initially only look at the bump behind the ear. Next, he will carefully palpate its consistency and, if necessary, its movability. In most cases, the above-mentioned measures are then sufficient to make a diagnosis. In some cases, a blood test is also required. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound are also used in some cases and can provide further information about the nature of the lump behind the ear and thus provide clues for the diagnosis.

How long does a bump behind the ear remain?

It is not possible to make a general statement about the length of time for which a bump on the ear exists, as it can vary greatly due to the multitude of possible causes. If it is a swelling of the lymph nodes in response to an inflammation or a cold, the bump usually disappears within a few days after the disease has healed. In some cases, however, the swelling remains palpable in the long term.

Some bumps do not go away but do not change either. Mostly they are benign growths that do not need to be treated. If a bump behind the ear persists for more than two weeks, it should be examined by a doctor. The same applies to severe symptoms and when the lump becomes bigger and bigger.