The lymphatic system is involved in the metabolism, is an assistant to the cardiovascular system. It consists of vessels, capillaries, ducts, lymph nodes. The latter serve as filters. In the presence of infection, they localize it and do not allow it to affect the whole body.
In normal condition, they are not palpable. They have an elastic soft structure and the size is not larger than a pea. Grouped where large vessels that collect lymph merge.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear may indicate a problem in this area (sinusitis, otitis media, furunculosis, inflammation of the nerve, etc.). Usually this does not threaten anything serious, just a signal that it is time to check your health. But if at the same time you are experiencing severe pain, you should be wary, as this may be a symptom of lymphoma (a tumor of the lymph nodes). Seek immediate medical attention. Although such cases are quite rare, it is better not to neglect your health and make sure that everything is in order. To do this, you will have to take a blood test, in some cases, a tomography or biopsy is prescribed.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Fever, pain under the ear and under the jaw.
- The lymph node is well palpable, there is an increase in its size and compaction.
- General weakness, fatigue, lethargy, headaches are noted.
Enlarged lymph nodes are not a reason to worry. This may be an indicator of his active work. This phenomenon is often observed in people who have had infectious diseases. After a complete recovery of the body, usually everything returns to normal. However, if the healing process dragged on or pain appeared, then you should consult a specialist.
How to treat inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear
This condition does not require specific treatment. The root cause must be addressed. But it should be remembered that if there is inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear, they should never be heated! Heating can only become a catalyst for the spread of the virus throughout the body, and it will be more difficult for the immune system to defeat the disease.
Of course, you should not ignore the inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear, especially when it comes to children. A child encounters a wide variety of infections by visiting public places. Its immune system seeks to protect the body and activates the lymphatic system. Doctor consultation will not be superfluous.
Complications also occur - the formation of pus and bacteremia (blood infection). In this case, antibiotics and drainage cannot be avoided. In acute inflammation, anti-inflammatory therapy is prescribed for the affected organ (physiotherapeutic procedures, antibiotics). An autopsy is performed.
Chronic inflammation is treated similarly, but special attention is paid to the initial foci of infection.
The choice of treatment method depends on the cause of the disease:
- Immune Disorder If the lymph nodes become inflamed, for example, due to rheumatoid arthritis, then drugs for this disease are prescribed.
- Infection. With bacterial damage, antibiotics are always prescribed.
- Cancer. It all depends on the stage and type of tumor. Surgical intervention, chemotherapy may be needed.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear (and elsewhere) can be prevented by strengthening the body’s immune system.