The lymph node behind the child's ear has become enlarged. Why does the child's lymph node behind the ear become inflamed? What causes lymph nodes to become inflamed?

The lymphatic system in the human body serves as a biological filter that protects the body from the invasion of infection. Situations where a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear are by no means uncommon. Individual elements of the defense system react to microorganisms infecting nearby organs. In addition, inflammation of the lymph nodes occurs with malignant tumors.

There are about 500–700 lymph nodes throughout the body. The diameter of most of them under normal conditions is approximately 1 cm (from 5 to 20 mm). Sizes vary depending on the location of the node and the functions it performs. Directly behind the auricle there is a group of lymph nodes of 2–4 elements. The size of each is comparable to a pea; the formations have a soft consistency and are not fused to the skin. In normal condition they cannot be felt.

The posterior auricular and superficial cervical lymph nodes under the ear are “responsible” for filtering lymph, clearing germs and foreign substances (drainage). As a result, cells are activated, destroying infection and tumor elements, and the formation of antibodies to pathogens of many diseases. The lymphatic system is involved in metabolism, transporting metabolic products and enzymes.

Lymphadenopathy, or an increase in the diameter of nodes, and lymphadenitis (inflammation) is caused by many infections, cancer and other diseases.

The drainage area for the posterior auricular lymph nodes is the scalp, auricle, and external auditory canal. The posterior auricular lymph nodes, together with the cervical and occipital lymph nodes, neutralize infections, cancer cells, and foreign proteins. If negative changes begin in nearby tissues, the volume of the lymph node grows rapidly.

the lymph nodes behind the child’s ears or on the neck are enlarged up to 2–3 cm;
the size of the formations does not become smaller within three months;
redness of the skin over the lymph node behind the ear;
the formation moves easily under your fingers;
the child loses weight.

The abnormal size of the node in the case of isolated lymphadenopathy in children ranges from 1.5 to 2 cm. The most “suspicious” are formations over 2 cm in diameter. The child feels pain in this area, and a lump under the skin is visually noticeable. The course of the purulent process is indicated by redness of the skin over the lymph node.

The main reasons for enlarged posterior auricular lymph nodes

Lymphadenopathy and lymphadenitis most often occur in response to the activity of bacteria and viruses. An increase in the diameter of the lymph nodes behind the ear and on the neck in a child signals external tuberculosis or inflammation of the ENT organs (often). Infectious diseases provoke lymphadenitis. Another option is a malignant neoplasm in adjacent areas of the body (rare).

An enlarged postauricular lymph node almost always indicates a pathological process in the tissues of the head or throughout the body.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear in a child is often associated with respiratory viral infections (ARVI). As a rule, in this case, nearby lymph nodes increase in volume and become painful. This is how the immune system is mobilized to protect the body from viruses. Complications of ARVI can provoke the same changes.

Lymph nodes behind the ear in a child - causes of increased volume and inflammation:

pharyngitis, laryngitis, acute tonsillitis and exacerbation of a chronic disease;
stomatitis, gingivitis, dental caries, periodontal disease;
Hodgkin's disease or lymphogranulomatosis;
lymphosarcoma or non-Hodgin lymphoma;
cat scratch disease or felinosis;
external and media otitis;
infected wounds;
Kawasaki syndrome;
furunculosis;
sinusitis;
tuberculosis;
ARVI, etc.

Cat scratch fever is caused by infection with Bartonella henselae. After a cat or hamster bite or scratches caused by animals, the microbe penetrates the skin or mucous membranes. The bacteria reach the lymphatic vessels and enter nearby lymph nodes, which increase to 2–5 cm. The site of Bartonella penetration produces compaction and suppuration.

When there are no symptoms of inflammation of the ENT organs, a latent course of the disease is indicated by changes in the lymph nodes that limit the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Postauricular lymphadenitis is considered nonspecific if there are no special signs. However, when infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, symptoms characteristic of this infection occur (specific lymphadenitis).

Diagnostics and therapy

In the acute form of the disease, the volume of the lymph node increases. The area of skin located above it becomes painful and swollen. If postauricular lymphadenitis is not accompanied by suppuration, then the size of the lymph node behind the child’s ear changes slightly, and the skin retains its normal color. The formation remains elastic and is not fused with surrounding tissues.

The purulent form of lymphadenitis is accompanied by chills, headache, and fever. The size of the lymph node is comparable to a hazelnut or plum; it becomes painful, swollen, and the skin turns red. The danger of inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear is the spread of the pathological focus to the organs of hearing and vision, and brain tissue.

When symptoms of general intoxication and pain in the area of the affected lymph nodes appear, a child is given anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs.

The main stage of treatment is carried out taking into account the cause of lymphadenitis. The doctor sends a small patient for a blood test to get a general idea of the nature of the pathological process. In addition, this test suggests the development of tumors in the lymphatic system. Additionally, a puncture with a lymph node biopsy, ultrasound and other studies are prescribed to clarify and complement the picture of the pathological process.

If a child has an enlarged lymph node behind the ear, he should not be warmed up at home. This can cause suppuration and spread of the inflammatory process. Dry heat to the affected area, the doctor prescribes various physiotherapy procedures if there is no danger of purulent inflammation. Surgery is performed to remove ulcers. When the outflow of pus is not ensured, the capsule ruptures, the infection spreads into the surrounding tissues, provoking the formation of phlegmon.

Treatment of lymphadenitis is carried out in parallel with the sanitation of foci of infection in the body. For antibiotic therapy, azithromycin, cotrimoxazole, rifampicin, clarithromycin are used. In some cases, amikacin from aminoglycosides and antimicrobial agents from the group of fluoroquinolones are prescribed.

What to do if a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear updated: June 9, 2016 by: admin

If a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear, this is the result of a serious pathology, but the main cause is a cold. Parents' actions must be correct to reduce the likelihood of negative consequences.

The lymphatic system takes part in metabolism. It acts as a filter that builds immunity and protects against infections. The organs of the system react to pathogenic pathogens.

Lymphatic fluid helps protect the child from dangerous consequences for the body at the slightest disruption. Normally, the nodes are mobile, do not provoke discomfort, and are small in size. Enlarged nodes first become a consequence of a pathological process in nearby tissues, and then, as they become inflamed, they become a source of infection. This becomes dangerous for the lymphatic system; it is necessary to find out the cause.

Lymph nodes behind the ear in children and adults are responsible for the functioning of the ENT organs and their surroundings. That is why they talk about failures in their work.

Causes of inflammation

Lymphadenitis is not a disease, but only a symptom indicating another dangerous condition or pathology. For example, inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes often indicates a sore throat. The cause may also be a disease such as mumps.

The lymph node enlarges due to the accumulation of microbes or the remains of their vital activity in it, which in turn causes an immune response and the accumulation of leukocytes.

If the situation becomes more complicated and the lymph nodes cannot cope with the load, inflammation develops. The skin swells, the nodes increase, and sometimes purulent processes develop. This condition is called lymphadenitis.

Lymphadenitis can act as a primary or secondary pathology. In the first case, the cause becomes the node itself when the integrity of the skin is violated and infection penetrates there, which leads to a purulent process.

A secondary cause is a cold or systemic disease, another option is a malignant formation (tissues affected due to leukemia, brain lymphoma, etc.). Often, the inflammation of nodular formations becomes a chronic process.

If the lymph nodes behind a child’s ear suddenly become inflamed, and the cause is unknown, you should definitely show him to a doctor to rule out dangerous causes of this phenomenon. Wrong actions can provoke further aggravation.

The reasons why the lymph node behind the ear in a child becomes inflamed are:

ARVI;
Furunculosis of the ear;
viral or bacterial disease of the ENT organs, for example, pharyngitis or tonsillitis;
pathologies of teeth and gums and other purulent processes, infected wounds in the mouth;
infectious diseases: measles, mumps, mononucleosis or another option;
reaction to otitis media or tonsillitis of bacterial origin, the first disease is characterized by inflammation of the middle ear;
taking medications: quinidine, sulfonamides, captopril and some others.

After identifying the cause of an enlarged lymph node behind the ear, a course of treatment for the underlying viral or bacterial disease is prescribed, after which its condition returns to normal. Most of the listed pathologies also have other symptoms that may indicate the nature of the disorders.

It happens that painful ear bumps are observed with chickenpox; lymph nodes with chickenpox in children become inflamed infrequently, but this does occur. The disease is characterized by the appearance of a vesicular rash on the body. This should not be ignored, but this does not pose a serious danger.

Symptoms of the disease

Damage to the lymph nodes in diseases in the neck area can be characterized by various signs. Symptoms most often include:

increasing them;
temperature rise in the affected area;
lethargy, apathy, refusal to eat, weakness;
hyperemia behind the ear in the area of inflammation;
headache;
if the cause is a fungal disease, dandruff is observed;
pathology can be accompanied by the release of pus during tuberculous lymphadenitis;
formation of swelling.

The formation of a soft lump behind the ear indicates an advanced stage of the infectious process, which requires special attention.

The behind-the-ear lump may hurt when you touch the affected area or radiate into the ear. If a chronic process has developed, then such symptoms may be absent. If there are enlarged lymph nodes behind the ears in children, you should see a doctor and get advice.

Diagnostics

To determine the reason why the lymph node behind the child’s ear hurts, the doctor first examines the child. Feels the tonsils for changes, examines the skin, assesses the presence of damage. But he can diagnose the condition of the peripheral lymphatic network only after a blood test.

If after a week the cause of the lump behind the ear is not found, a chest x-ray is indicated. Sometimes a biopsy is performed. This is done using a hollow needle, which is inserted into the node behind the ear and takes a sample of the contents. The procedure is not accompanied by any unpleasant sensations; local painkillers are used to perform it.

How to treat a lymph node behind the ear in a child

What to do first of all, if the lymph node behind the ear is inflamed in a child, is to carry out a diagnosis. If the cause of lymphadenitis turns out to be an exacerbation of an ENT disease, then such a complication can only go away by eliminating the cause itself. After the underlying disease is cured, the lymph node behind the ear will also return to normal.

But such a situation can be harmful to health and have more serious consequences. In order for the treatment to be correct, you should go to the doctor; medications may be needed to boost immunity.

Drug treatment

After an examination, the doctor determines the reason why the child’s lymph node is inflamed near the ear and prescribes appropriate therapy. For otitis media or tonsillitis, the patient is prescribed semisynthetic antibiotics (penicillins: Amoxiclav, Augmentin, cephalosporins: Ceftriaxone). General restorative medications may also be prescribed if indicated.

For pain, anti-inflammatory non-steroidal medications (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol) are most often prescribed. Analgesics and anesthetics (Analgin, Baralgin) are also prescribed to eliminate it. Some of them come in the form of creams that must be applied directly to the inflamed lymph node behind the ear.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are indicated to relieve swelling. If there are signs of suppuration, treatment of lymph formation is carried out using surgical methods. The doctor prescribes surgical cleansing for diagnoses such as lymphadenitis, complicated by a nephrotic or phlegmatic process. After the intervention, treatment of an inflamed lymph node behind the ear in a child consists of providing careful care of the wound surface; drug therapy alone may not be enough.

Home care

Treatment of inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear in a child must be accompanied by proper and careful care, otherwise its effectiveness will be low. The result greatly depends on the correctness of the parents' actions. To get better, you need to strictly follow the pediatrician’s recommendations and undergo diagnostics; in such cases, therapy is primarily aimed at eliminating the underlying disease.

To quickly resolve the problem, you need to follow simple rules on how to treat an inflamed lymph node in a child behind the ear:

Do not heat the cone. This can cause the spread of infection or a purulent process.
Compresses can provoke a similar reaction, so their use is also prohibited.
It is necessary to eat a balanced diet. Giving preference to healthy foods will help strengthen your immune system. They are most found in vegetables, fruits and herbs.
Dress your baby according to the weather. It is important that he is not too cold, but he should not sweat either.
While there is inflammation behind the ear, it is important to cover your head. When the child is healthy, walking without a hat in slightly cool weather will stimulate the immune system.
Traditional methods of treatment can only be used if approved by the attending physician. Many of them can be harmful.

It is necessary to observe the dosage of medications and give them to the child on time, however, drug treatment may not be enough, in which case additional physiotherapy may be prescribed.

The task is to demonstrate the lump behind the ear to the doctor in a timely manner in order to exclude serious causes that could affect the process and prevent possible consequences. Parents should be sure to monitor changes in the child’s condition in order to act in time. Self-medication is unacceptable; in the event of complications, recovery becomes much more difficult.

Conclusion

An inflamed lymph node behind the ear in a child does not clearly indicate a problem, but it definitely requires examination by a doctor. If it is enlarged, this does not always indicate inflammation; the main difference is the presence of accompanying symptoms - discharge, pain, temperature.

Contents [Show]

Causes of inflammation

ear problems: furunculosis in the ear canal, otitis media, sinusitis, nerve inflammation;
acute or chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis;
sinusitis;
syphilis and tuberculosis;
HIV infection;
fungal infection;
allergic dermatitis;
diphtheria of the tonsils;
streptococcal sore throat;

Symptoms

temperature (from 37°C and above);
headache;

Drug treatment

For allergies - antihistamines.
Sulfonamides.
General strengthening agents.

Home care

Inflammation of the vascular system of the body is a very common disease today. However, if the parotid lymph node is inflamed, this indicates the onset of an infectious disease in the body.

Pay attention to the condition and appearance of the lymph node. If you experience pain, suppuration, immobility, or an increase in volume, you should immediately contact a medical facility. This should be done immediately if the lymph node becomes inflamed behind the child’s ear.

About inflammation of the lymph nodes

It is important to remember that lymphatic system is an important part of the vascular structure of the human body, and lymph is a liquid that has no color. It washes all tissues and cells of the body.

Lymph nodes perform several functions in the human body..

They protect the body from bacteria and the invasion of various infections.

However, with the modern quality of life and poor ecology, an enlarged lymph node behind the ear in a child is not a rare disease.

Thus, the body symbolizes the beginning of inflammation and viruses entering the blood.

However, in more serious cases, inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear in a child signals tumor formations.

The ear lymph nodes are located at the back of the ears. They can be various shapes:

round;
oval;
in the form of beans.

Pay attention to the photo of the lymph node behind the child’s ear:

In the normal state, the lymph nodes behind the ear in a child mobile, do not come into contact with the skin and do not cause a painful reaction when touched. The size of the lymph node is no more than five millimeters.

In case of inflammation of this area, the child has pain behind the ear, the baby is often capricious and cries, and also refuses to eat and cannot sleep.

In addition, the baby’s body temperature increases, and lumps appear at the site of the lymph node.

Therefore, when enlarging this vessel, pay attention to the baby’s health as a whole, since enlarged vessels always warn of possible danger.

Lymph nodes behind the ear hurt in a child - causes

If you notice an inflamed lymph node behind the ear in a baby, you need to have it diagnosed at a medical facility.

For young parents do not start self-medication without determining the root cause of inflammation. Otherwise, there is a high risk of re-infection or complications of the disease.

However, before visiting a specialist, pay attention to the following signs and, if possible, begin treatment listed inflammations:

Otitis.
Sinusitis.
Inflammation of the nerves.
Problems in the outer ear caused by colds.
Inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx.
Runny nose.
Inflammation of the tonsils.
Chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa.
Inflammation in the baby's mouth.
Caries.
Purulent processes in the mouth.
Open wounds in the mouth area.
Inflammation of the dental nerve.

In more severe cases, the lymph node can become inflamed due to syphilis or tuberculosis and even HIV infection.

In addition, pay attention to possible infectious diseases. These include scarlet fever, mononucleosis, measles, mumps, and rubella.

The following reasons may not be the main ones, but they are necessary draw your attention:

The appearance of fungus in the ear.
A tumor disease of the blood system, in which tumor cells are formed from mature cells of lymphoid tissue.
A malignant tumor in which the affected lymph nodes are clinically destroyed.
Allergic dermatitis.
Formation of white films in the pharynx.
Streptococcal sore throat.

In addition to the listed signs, inflammation can be caused by long-term use of antibiotics and medications containing phenytoin, pyrimethamine, quinidine, and sulfonamide.

Symptoms of the disease

Please note the following symptoms, since inflammation such as enlarged lymph nodes behind the ears in children is accompanied not only by an increase in size.

Increased body temperature, reaching 39 degrees Celsius.
General malaise, rapid onset of fatigue.
The child is often capricious and cries.
Insomnia sets in.
The baby refuses food.
Strong headache.
Purulent rashes behind the ears.

In some cases, children do not feel any symptoms or cannot explain them due to their age. However, if the baby often touches his ears or face, this is a clear signal for an attentive parent to consult a doctor.

This inflammation has several stages. If a child’s lymph node has become hard and the skin color is rapidly changing, this indicates about a serious process in the body.

After determining the root cause, the specialist will prescribe a course of treatment. After completing physical therapy and taking a course of medications, the lymph node will return to its natural shape.

How to treat a lymph node behind the ear in a child

If inflammation is detected behind the ear, the baby should undergo a full health diagnosis. Often, to make an accurate diagnosis it is necessary take a blood test.

In addition, the patient should undergo a computed tomography scan and x-ray.

After the examination and the results obtained, the doctor prescribes treatment.

Depending on the case, the patient is prescribed the following medications:

antibiotics and penicillins, e.g. "Flemoxin Solutab";
in case of enlarged lymph nodes due to allergens, the patient is prescribed antihistamines "Zyrtec", "Telfast", "Erius";
antimicrobials "Ibuklin", "Nurofen", "Paracetamol";
Medicines are also needed to raise the overall tone in the body: "Cefotaxime", "Tsiprolet", "Cefalexin".

In case of inflammation due to signs of otitis media, the patient is prescribed specialized drops and antibiotics. In milder cases, for example, otitis externa, only ear drops and physiotherapy, including heat treatment and laser therapy, are sufficient.

To reduce pain, the little patient is prescribed painkillers, treatment with dressings and various tinctures.

For more serious diseases, for example, acute purulent lymphadenitis, surgical intervention cannot be avoided.

Before the operation, the patient is prescribed a special course with antibiotics and preoperative exercises.

Conclusion

Parents should daily monitor not only the condition of the ears, but also the lymph nodes. In addition, the mother of an infant should systematically check whether the lymph nodes are enlarged and take care of the condition of the outer ear as carefully as possible.

Remember that if there is an exacerbation of the lymph node It is strictly prohibited to carry out manipulations using traditional medicine.

The affected area should not be heated or massaged, or compresses should be applied without a doctor’s permission. This will lead to a deterioration in the baby's well-being.

It is best in such a situation to consult a doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

As a response to general or local pathological processes in the body, the child often becomes inflamed in the lymph node behind the ear, in the parotid region and on the neck. If the inflammatory reaction is confirmed, lymphadenitis is diagnosed, the treatment of which depends on the stage of the process, the type of primary disease, the degree of intoxication, etc. However, if the lymph nodes behind the ears of the child are enlarged due to lymphotropic viral infections, which include the herpes virus, infectious mononucleosis , adenovirus and cytomegalovirus, drug therapy is often not necessary.

Causes of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear

An increase in behind-the-ear “bumps” most often becomes a manifestation of a reaction to processes taking place in the nasopharynx and oral cavity. So, for example, if a general blood test does not show any deviations from the norm, the child’s condition is normal, the “bump” behind the ear does not hurt, and the remaining nodes of the lymph system are not enlarged, there is a high probability that teeth are being cut. In this case, no special treatment is required.

However, it is necessary to clearly distinguish between the concepts of “enlargement” and “inflammation” of the lymph node (lymph nodes) behind the ear in a child.

In childhood, a painless increase in “bumps” is detected regularly (sometimes several times a year) and often does not require an immediate medical response. After various viral diseases of the nasopharynx, the lymphatic system will necessarily respond by increasing the size of nodal formations in nearby lymph groups (cervical, submandibular and sometimes parotid).

And although the increased size may persist for another month after the underlying disease has been cured, this in itself is not a sign of a dangerous inflammatory process.

If a child’s lymph node behind the ear is inflamed and painful, an urgent need to consult a doctor who will both treat the primary diseases and prevent the possible spread of the inflammatory process. Not every increase in the filtering nodal “station” leads to its inflammation. However, only a doctor can diagnose the condition of the peripheral lymphatic network based on a general blood test.

Inflammation differs from simple enlargement of the node:

soreness (both constant and when touched),
redness (blue discoloration) of the skin over the “bump”,
an increase in temperature in the affected area,
rapid swelling of the node during the day.

The change in skin temperature over the “bump” changes with bacterial infections and, as a rule, does not change with viral ones.

Soreness behind the ears “bumps” may indicate a reaction to otitis media, sore throat, colds, flu, chronic tonsillitis, childhood infections (scarlet fever, diphtheria), skin diseases. At the same time, the very fact of a painful reaction of the lymphatic system is not enough for diagnosis. In order to accurately determine the causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear(s) in a child, the entire range of symptoms is taken into account.

Adenoviral infection is manifested by nasal congestion, conjunctivitis, and sore throat. Rubella and measles are accompanied by a characteristic skin rash. With infectious mononucleosis, the spleen and liver become enlarged, and all lymph groups swell. In case of careless contact with pets (especially cats), cat scratch disease can develop, in which the group of lymph nodes serving the scratched area becomes inflamed due to infection with bacteria. In this case, patients take a course of antibiotics for 10-14 days. With viral diseases in the neck and head, a multiple increase in small subcutaneous “buckshot” nodes can be observed.

Diseases related to potential causes of changes in the condition of the lymph node can be divided into:

immune (rheumatism, lupus erythematosus, etc.),
infectious (for example, mononucleosis),
tumor.

Specific lymphadenitis, according to the nature of the clinical picture, are of the following types:

Tuberculous. It is characterized by the involvement of several nodes on both sides, which are soldered into lumpy dense formations. The process may be accompanied by the release of pus or a curdled mass if the integrity of the capsule is violated.
Actinomycotic. It is characterized by a sluggish inflammatory process that spreads from nodular formations to surrounding tissues. Accompanied by thinning and discoloration of the skin over the “bumps”. One of the probable signs is the formation of a fistula with an outlet.
Bubonic. Occurs with tularemia and is characterized by an increase in the size of the nodular formation to 3-5 cm, adhesion to the underlying tissues, suppuration of the bubo and the formation of a fistula with purulent discharge.

Monitoring the state of the lymphatic system and treatment

The process of immunity formation in adults and children differs in the degree of activity, therefore, the reaction of the children's lymph system to the infectious process is a common and expected phenomenon, which most often does not require separate therapeutic intervention.

However, in the case of inflammation of the lymph node behind the child’s ear, treatment is prescribed; a general blood test performed immediately before the appointment can help the doctor determine what to do if the lymph node is inflamed. In the absence of pathology, to monitor the state of the lymphatic system, such a blood test (with the leukocyte formula present in it) is sufficient to carry out twice a year.

In general, the treatment of all secondary lymphadenitis is associated with the relief of infectious and inflammatory processes and with getting rid of the disease that led to the spread of viral, bacterial, fungal or tumor pathology.

If a viral disease is successfully cured, even if the increased size of the painless node remains (and in the absence of other signs of suppuration), treatment for lymph formation is most often not prescribed. Within two weeks to a month, the behind-the-ear node usually returns to normal on its own. In this case, the behind-the-ear “bump” may not have time to go away completely if the underlying viral disease recurs or if a new one arises in the service area of this lymph group. A situation is possible when an enlarged node first becomes a consequence of a viral infection, and then a reaction to an erupting tooth. That is, two different causes alternately lead to the same effect, but in both of these cases, treatment of the lymphatic “bump” directly (for example, by applying ointment) is not carried out.

For chronic and acute serous nonspecific lymphadenitis, conservative therapy is used:

antibiotics (semi-synthetic penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides),
desensitizing agents,
dry heat,
compresses with Vishnevsky ointment,
immunostimulants and vitamins.

If there is no therapeutic effect with conservative treatment or if lymphadenitis develops into a purulent phase, the child is hospitalized for an emergency opening of the suppuration, drainage and sanitation of the lesion.

For necrotizing lymphadenitis, various methods are used to remove foci of inflammation. In the postoperative period, complex detoxification and anti-inflammatory treatment is performed.

Nodes are important elements of the lymphatic system

Lymphadenopathy, or an increase in the diameter of nodes, and lymphadenitis (inflammation) is caused by many infections, cancer and other diseases.

the lymph nodes behind the child’s ears or on the neck are enlarged up to 2–3 cm;
the size of the formations does not become smaller within three months;
redness of the skin over the lymph node behind the ear;
the formation moves easily under your fingers;
the child loses weight.

The main reasons for enlarged posterior auricular lymph nodes

An enlarged postauricular lymph node almost always indicates a pathological process in the tissues of the head or throughout the body.

Lymph nodes behind the ear in a child - causes of increased volume and inflammation:

pharyngitis, laryngitis, acute tonsillitis and exacerbation of a chronic disease;
stomatitis, gingivitis, dental caries, periodontal disease;
Hodgkin's disease or lymphogranulomatosis;
lymphosarcoma or non-Hodgin lymphoma;
cat scratch disease or felinosis;
external and media otitis;
infected wounds;
Kawasaki syndrome;
furunculosis;
sinusitis;
tuberculosis;
ARVI, etc.

When there are no symptoms of inflammation of the ENT organs, a latent course of the disease is indicated by changes in the lymph nodes that limit the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Diagnostics and therapy

When symptoms of general intoxication and pain in the area of the affected lymph nodes appear, a child is given anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear in children: what to do and how to treat

The lymphatic system is an important part of the body's vascular system, which takes an active part in metabolism. This is a kind of biological filter that forms immunity, protecting the body from all kinds of infections. Lymph is a clear liquid that returns salts, proteins, and toxins to the blood.

In a normal state, the lymph nodes are mobile, do not connect to the skin, do not cause pain, and are no larger than a pea in size. If they increase (the disease is called lymphadenitis, lymphadenopathy), you need to immediately look for the cause, since this is a signal of disturbances in the functioning of some nearby organ. For example, if a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear (this happens often), this can be a sign of a variety of diseases.

Causes of inflammation

When a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear, it is better to make a timely diagnosis in the hospital than to guess on your own about the causes of this unpleasant phenomenon. Parents can only make an assumption about what became the provoking factor, and it can only be confirmed by a specialist. Usually in such cases the problem lies in the organs located nearby. It can be:

problems with the ears: furunculosis in the ear canal, otitis media. sinusitis. nerve inflammation;
weakening of the immune system due to any colds, acute respiratory viral infections, even a common runny nose;
acute or chronic tonsillitis. pharyngitis;
sinusitis;
inflammatory and purulent processes, infected wounds in the oral cavity;
dental caries: if a child has pain in the lymph node behind the ear, this may be inflammation of the dental nerve;
syphilis and tuberculosis;
HIV infection;
all kinds of infectious diseases: scarlet fever, mononucleosis, measles, mumps, rubella, brucellosis, hysteriosis;
fungal infection;
lymphogranulomatosis, lymphosarcoma;
allergic dermatitis;
diphtheria of the tonsils;
streptococcal sore throat;
taking certain medications: allopurinol, atenolol, captopril, carbamazepine, cephalosporins, gold preparations, hydralazine, penicillin, phenytoin, pyrimethamine, quinidine, sulfonamides.

After identifying the real disease, due to which the inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the child’s ear began, it will be necessary to undergo a course of treatment, and their size will return to normal. In addition to enlarged lymph nodes, you can observe a number of other symptoms that will signal malfunctions in the small body.

Symptoms

Most often, enlarged lymph nodes behind the ears in children are accompanied by symptoms such as:

increase in size, formation of soft swelling;
temperature (from 37°C and above);
malaise, lethargy, moodiness, insomnia, loss of appetite;
if a hard lymph node behind a child’s ear resembles a lump, this may not be the first stage, but an advanced form of a serious and dangerous infectious process occurring in a small body;
if hair begins to fall out and the amount of dandruff increases, the main disease lies in a fungal infection;
headache;
sometimes a child may not feel any pain with an enlarged lymph node, and sometimes when palpated, he cries: the pain will radiate to his submandibular region and ear;
Sometimes, in the area of the enlarged lymph node behind the ear, the child experiences pustular rashes.

All these signs will help parents realize it in time and consult a doctor for help. If a child has an enlarged lymph node behind the ear, only a qualified specialist can prescribe the correct treatment.

Drug treatment

After the examination, the doctor will explain in detail what to do if a child has an inflamed lymph node behind the ear: what caused it, what course of treatment he prescribes, and even how to properly care for the problem area. Diagnosis includes a blood test (required), computed tomography (rare), x-ray, biopsy (only in extreme cases). Therapy primarily depends on the underlying diagnosis.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics (penicillins).
For allergies - antihistamines.
Sulfonamides.
General strengthening agents.
For diseases of the ear canal, anti-inflammatory drops are most often prescribed.
For pain, analgesics and anesthetics are prescribed.
To eliminate swelling, physiotherapy is most often prescribed.
When diagnosed with acute purulent lymphadenitis, complicated by a necrotic or phlegmonous process, surgical opening of the abscesses can be performed with subsequent prescription of drug therapy for inflammation.

However, drug treatment in such cases is not enough. We also need quality care at home. The doctor will tell you not only how to treat an inflamed lymph node with medications, but also how to properly handle it so as not to aggravate or worsen its condition.

Home care

If the lymph nodes behind the ears of a child are enlarged, the doctor will advise the parents to care for the patient as carefully as possible, since this symptom is very important for the entire small organism. A few useful recommendations will speed up your baby’s recovery and significantly alleviate his condition.

Under no circumstances should you warm an inflamed lymph node with anything: this can provoke further spread of the infection, which will lead to a permanent deterioration in the baby’s condition.
For the same purpose, avoid compresses.
You need to take a course of multivitamins that will strengthen the immune system.
In the off-season, in damp and cold weather, dress your child warmly, but not too hot, so that he does not sweat or get cold. Take special care of your head and ears: a hat made of natural material should be appropriate for the season.

If you find enlarged lymph nodes behind the ears in your child, you should not try to cure him with grandma’s remedies, as the cause may be too serious. The only right decision in such a situation is to contact a pediatrician who can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment. This will avoid complications and will contribute to the baby’s speedy recovery from any illness.

Why does inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear occur in a child?

Human lymphatic system. which includes the lymph node behind the ear, is a complex mechanism that ensures the movement of lymph in the body and is closely related to the cardiovascular system. Inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear indicates the presence of an inflammatory process within this system.

In order to understand what to do in such a situation and who to turn to in order to maintain the child’s health, how to treat the lymph nodes behind the ear, it is important to know the structural features of this part, and the reasons that can provoke disruption of its functioning.

The substance that fills the lymph nodes is lymphocytes– blood cells that influence the development of the child’s immunity. In their normal state they are soft, and a child’s size is no larger than a pea. If the lymph node behind the child’s ear is red and enlarged, this indicates inflammation.

In case of any manifestation of a disorder in the child’s body, it is better to immediately consult a doctor. rather than trying to solve the problem yourself. Delaying time or ignoring lymphadenitis can lead to serious negative consequences.

What are the reasons for changes in the color and size of a lymph node?

Since the lymphatic system protects the body from infections and diseases, an enlarged lymph node indicates that the child has problems. Therefore, if the lymph node behind the ear of a child is inflamed, you need to figure out what causes this disorder. Especially if the lymph nodes of newborns are enlarged, because their immune system has not yet fully formed.

Most often this is a symptom of such diseases:

viral infection;
sore throat, such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis;
otitis media and other ear dysfunctions;
caries or purulent processes in the oral cavity;
fungal infection;
allergic dermatitis;
furunculosis;
sinusitis and some others.

In addition to the fact that these diseases cause inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear, other symptoms of the disease appear that will help identify the problem. In addition to the ear ones, the lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin may also become inflamed. Their localization can also tell the specialist the cause of the infectious process that needs to be eliminated.

It is impossible to treat lymphadenitis behind the ear separately from the concomitant disease; therapy must be comprehensive to speed up the recovery of the newborn.

How is lymphadenitis diagnosed?

To identify the cause that caused the enlarged lymph node behind the ear and prescribe treatment, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis. The first step in this procedure is an examination by a pediatrician: the doctor looks into the throat, listens to the lungs, and checks the child’s ears and nose.

Among the accompanying symptoms that may appear along with inflammation include:

increased body temperature of the child;
loss of appetite;
lethargy, drowsiness, weakness of the baby;
headache;
skin rash.

The next step to understand why the lymph node behind the child’s ear is inflamed should be testing. A blood test determines the nature of the inflammatory process. The results may indicate the presence of a formation in the body, the location of which is the lymphatic system.

Based on the results of a blood test, the pediatrician can draw a conclusion about why the infant’s lymph node is enlarged and whether additional tests, such as a biopsy, are required. Detailed information will allow you to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe procedures that will help treat the lymph nodes behind the ear.

What methods are used to treat inflamed lymph nodes?

If the lymph node in a baby is enlarged and the doctor has diagnosed that lymphadenitis is developing behind the ear, it is important to start treatment on time. First of all, you need to eliminate the disease that provoked the occurrence of this symptom. Antiviral drugs are used to treat viral and infectious diseases; sometimes the pediatrician may prescribe the use of antibiotics.

Most often, specialists prescribe the following medications:

sulfonamides;
anti-allergenic agents;
anti-inflammatory ear drops;
restorative medications;
analgesics.

Lymph nodes in newborns behind the ears need to be treated with special preparations, gel or ointment, which will help stop the inflammatory process. Physiotherapeutic procedures that the child undergoes in the clinic help relieve swelling.

You should not independently exclude or add medications to the treatment prescribed by your pediatrician. The doctor selects all medications based on the characteristics of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

What home treatment methods are there?

In parallel with drug and therapeutic treatment of lymphadenitis, the doctor will definitely recommend several procedures and discuss the rules for caring for a sick child at home.

Home care rules include:

For any disease, if the lymph node behind the ear of a child is enlarged, heating this area is prohibited, since heat can activate the purulent process in the lymphatic system.
Limiting walks in wet and cold weather, taking care of your ears and head.
Taking multivitamins to help restore the child’s immunity.
Reduce stress, rest and rest.

The child’s lymph nodes are enlarged, why and what to do?

Inflamed lymph node behind the ear

The parotid lymph nodes are located along the posterior auricular vein. These are formations measuring 3-5 mm, round, oval or bean-shaped. Normally, the lymph nodes behind the ear are soft and cannot be felt. Once inflamed, they become larger, denser and are easily identified by palpation.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear

Pain in the parotid lymph node often indicates a problem in one of the nearby organs and may indicate the onset of an infectious disease. If the lymph node is enlarged, but there is no pain or suppuration, and after treatment of the underlying disease the normal state quickly returns, this is local lymphadenopathy, a reaction to an infection that has penetrated into the lymph and caused a specific disease.

If one lymph node behind the ear is inflamed, the swelling is accompanied by pain; this is lymphadenitis, a disease of the node itself. The disease occurs when a lymph node becomes infected with infected cells from an inflamed area. Accompanied by elevated temperature, sometimes suppuration appears in the area of the parotid lymph node, a general feeling of malaise is felt, and painful sensations in the “bump” are disturbing. The focus of suppuration formed during purulent lymphadenitis is called adenophlegmon.

Why do the behind-the-ear lymph nodes become inflamed?

When a lymph node hurts behind the ear, this is due to one of several possible reasons. What causes lymph nodes to become inflamed:

ear diseases otitis externa and media, labyrinthitis;
tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis;
inflammation of periodontal tissues, gingivitis, caries;
neuritis of the auditory nerve, when the peripheral nerves located inside the ear are affected;
bacteria staphylococcus, streptococcus;
infections chickenpox, mumps.

If the lymph node is inflamed and noticeably enlarged, it means that the infectious agents have spread throughout the lymphatic system. There is acute and chronic postauricular lymphadenitis, unilateral and bilateral. Colds and acute respiratory viral infections with a severe runny nose often cause swelling of the lymph nodes, whose location is behind the ear. A weakened immune system increases the chances of getting sick; during pregnancy, lymphadenitis more often causes complications.

How and with what to treat lymphedenitis at home

If one lymph node behind the ear is inflamed, and the cause is some kind of disease, after the primary source of infection is cured, everything else will go away. It is important to know that an inflamed lymph node cannot be cured by heating and other thermal procedures; these methods will only worsen the situation. In complex treatment of the lymph nodes located behind the ear, antibiotics, analgesics, and physiotherapy are used (to eliminate the tumor). In acute lymphadenitis with suppuration, ulcers are sometimes opened.

Folk remedies

Treatment at home should not replace medication. The first is additional, supporting. Effective folk recipes for inflammation of the lymph node:

Beetroot juice. To prepare it, take the root vegetable along with the tops. Mix the squeezed juice with carrot juice (1:4), drink 100 ml per day.
Nettle decoction. Take a tablespoon of nettle leaves, preferably fresh ones, brew a glass of boiling water, leave for half an hour. Strain and drink half a glass before meals.
A decoction of dandelion leaves. Proportions: teaspoon to 1 cup of boiling water. Brew, leave for 20 minutes, strain. 20 minutes before meals, drink 1/4 of a glass.
Aloe juice. Wash the cut leaves, chop finely, squeeze out the juice, mix 150 ml of liquid with a glass of fresh honey and 350 ml of Cahors. Place in a cool place for 5 days. Drink 3 times a day, a tablespoon, and do not eat for half an hour after that.

Antibiotics

Antimicrobial drugs are prescribed to treat the underlying disease that has caused inflammation of the nodes behind the ears. If it is not there, and the inflammatory process occurs only in the lymph node, they act on it. In this case, it is preferable to take drugs that can be prescribed in a minimum course: Azithromycin, Azitral, they are taken for 3 days. Antibiotics with a wide spectrum of action are indicated:

“Flemoxin Solutab” (for a child, dissolves in water);
cephalosporins “Cefotaxime”, “Tsiprolet”, “Cephalexin” penetrate well into the lymphoid tissue.

Medicines

If the body suffers a severe infection, fever and severe pain occur, symptomatic treatment is needed. Prescribed drugs:

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and reduce fever “Ibuklin”, “Nurofen”, “Paracetamol”;
antihistamines relieve swelling, reducing swelling, preferably 3rd generation drugs (Zyrtec, Telfast, Erius and others).

Which doctor treats lymph nodes

If you find painful lumps behind your ears, you should see a therapist. To diagnose lymphadenitis and prescribe treatment, in some cases it is necessary to exclude oncology. The doctor can send for a puncture, a biopsy of enlarged nodes, and write a referral for other types of diagnostics. If the picture of the disease is not clear enough, the therapist may recommend an appointment with a surgeon, hematologist, oncohematologist, or endocrinologist.

Causes of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear

However, it is necessary to clearly distinguish between the concepts of “enlargement” and “inflammation” of the lymph node (lymph nodes) behind the ear in a child.

And although the increased size may persist for another month after the underlying disease has been cured, this in itself is not a sign of a dangerous inflammatory process.

Inflammation differs from simple enlargement of the node:

The change in skin temperature over the “bump” changes with bacterial infections and, as a rule, does not change with viral ones.

Diseases related to potential causes of changes in the condition of the lymph node can be divided into:

immune (rheumatism, lupus erythematosus, etc.),
infectious (for example, mononucleosis),
tumor.

Specific lymphadenitis, according to the nature of the clinical picture, are of the following types:

Tuberculous. It is characterized by the involvement of several nodes on both sides, which are soldered into lumpy dense formations. The process may be accompanied by the release of pus or a curdled mass if the integrity of the capsule is violated.
Actinomycotic. It is characterized by a sluggish inflammatory process that spreads from nodular formations to surrounding tissues. Accompanied by thinning and discoloration of the skin over the “bumps”. One of the probable signs is the formation of a fistula with an outlet.
Bubonic. Occurs with tularemia and is characterized by an increase in the size of the nodular formation to 3-5 cm, adhesion to the underlying tissues, suppuration of the bubo and the formation of a fistula with purulent discharge.

Monitoring the state of the lymphatic system and treatment

The process of immunity formation in adults and children differs in the degree of activity, therefore, the reaction children's lymphatic system to the infectious process is a common and expected phenomenon, which most often does not require separate therapeutic intervention.

For chronic and acute serous nonspecific lymphadenitis, conservative therapy is used:

antibiotics (semi-synthetic penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides),
desensitizing agents,
dry heat,
compresses with Vishnevsky ointment,
immunostimulants and vitamins.

If there is no therapeutic effect with conservative treatment or if lymphadenitis develops into a purulent phase, the child is hospitalized for an emergency opening of the suppuration, drainage and sanitation of the lesion.

For necrotizing lymphadenitis, various methods are used to remove foci of inflammation. In the postoperative period, complex detoxification and anti-inflammatory treatment is performed.

Good afternoon, dear readers!

Many parents notice how their child’s lymph nodes become inflamed when they have a cold or illness. At the same time, parents panic and do not know what to do.

Sometimes doctors are unable to do anything. What an enlarged lymph node behind a child’s ear can mean and whether it’s worth worrying about is what we’ll talk about today.

Lymphatic system

First, let's figure out why a person needs a lymphatic system at all. Lymph nodes and their contents - lymph - serve as a kind of barrier that prevents infection from entering the body.

Every microorganism that enters the human body goes through the so-called “customs” of the lymphatic system. If it is recognized as foreign, lymphocyte cells are formed in the lymph nodes, which eliminate the incoming pathogenic bacterium or virus.

A lymph node is part of the immune system, and if it becomes inflamed, it means there is a disease in the child's body.

Why does it happen?

The reasons for such an anomaly can be both the most harmless and very dangerous for the health and life of the child. As you already understand, inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear or in another place is the body’s reaction to a virus or bacteria in the body. This is how we fight colds.

Here are the most common reasons:

. The most common cause of inflammation is the parotid lymph nodes, since they are located next to the lesion. If you notice this symptom, you should pay close attention to your baby’s complaints and see an ENT specialist.
. This is a viral disease accompanied by a reddish rash. A child can become infected with it, and an increase in nodes is also observed during a reaction to the vaccine. After the rash appears, the parotid lymph nodes become inflamed.
At . In babies under one year of age, teething can provoke local inflammation, resulting in an enlargement of the lymph node on one side. Doctors consider this to be the norm, but if the node does not go away for a long time, you should see an ENT specialist and an immunologist. In older children, inflammation of baby or molar teeth may occur.
Infectious diseases (mononucleosis, scarlet fever, measles, brucellosis). These infections cause enlargement of the lymph node.
Fungal infections.
Autoimmune diseases.
ARVI, viral infections.
Allergy to household chemicals or drugs if the child takes them.

A more serious problem, but fortunately less common, may be cancer.

If an enlarged lymph node is detected, you need to pay attention to other symptoms that accompany the existing ones:

temperature rise to 39-40 degrees;
purulent rashes;
pain when pressed;
drowsiness;
lethargy;
lack of appetite;
With fungal infections, peeling of the skin in the parotid area and itching can be detected.

It also happens that the lymph node becomes inflamed from birth. Doctors tend to interpret this increase as hereditary. This feature could be influenced by illnesses suffered by the mother during pregnancy or medications taken.

Diagnosis and treatment

If only one or two lymph nodes are enlarged, then as a rule this is not a cause for concern. Doctors recommend rest, good nutrition, fresh air and everything goes away on its own. It is worth being patient and not looking behind the baby’s ear every hour in the hope that the lymph node has returned to normal. It will take several weeks to recover.

But if many lymph nodes are enlarged, then doctors try to establish the cause. To do this, diagnostics are carried out. Diagnosis, as well as treatment for lymphadenitis (enlarged nodes), is difficult. This is due to the fact that large lymph nodes are a symptom of too many diseases. To determine the cause, the following tests are performed:

blood and urine;
CT and ultrasound of lymph nodes;
puncture for bacteriological culture.

The analysis may reveal the causative agent of the disease. If the problem is not teething or an allergic reaction, treatment is prescribed according to the standard regimen:

taking antibacterial and antiviral drugs;
antihistamines;
medicines to improve immunity.

It’s great if the cause is established and the doctor knows how to treat your illness. But how often mommy forums are full of messages about the powerlessness of doctors and requests for help! The baby's lymph nodes may be enlarged, but neither doctors nor tests can determine the exact cause.

Happy are those parents who report on the forum that sometimes the most harmless remedies, suggested by ordinary doctors, worked better than antibiotics prescribed by managers.

This suggests that doctors themselves cannot yet indicate all the reasons why lymph nodes become inflamed in children, especially from birth. The environment and the health of parents now play a big role. These factors greatly influence the child's immunity, and the result is a response that still baffles medicine.