Hard lumps behind ear

[diana83]

I'm a 28 years old male.

One day ago I've noticed two hard and painless lumps (pea sized) behind my left ear. In the last few ours I felt they've slightly decreased in size though they are still present.

I don't have any other symptom, I feel perfectly ok and I don't believe I have any visible infection, though my throat probably got some cold and hurt a bit a couple days ago.

My question is if this could be something to worry about like a lymphoma?

I recall having this in the past

Thanks a lot for your attention.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Since you had a cold recently, so the possibility of these bumps due to swollen lymph nodes is high. Lymph nodes are small (1-2cm) and bean-shaped nodes. They are very important to your body keeping you healthy. Lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Other causes include allergic reactions, arthritis, cancer, metabolic diseases, and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Apply warm compresses and these should go away in a few days. If they persist then please get them evaluated for being cysts or the other causes of lymphadenopathy. FNAC of the lymph nodes may be required. I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing. Kind regards.

[diana83]

I should also add to my initial message that I have an extremely itchy and scaling scalp with light hair loss.