Suggest Treatment For Swelling Behind Left Ear And Pain In Face

Posted on Sat, 15 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 15 Aug 2015 Answered on

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Yesterday around 4pm I noticed a swelling behind my left ear within 2 hours it was mump size very painful and has not went down yet. It is about the size of a plum starts right behind my ear and goes down into my chin(neck). I don't have a fever and my throat is not sore to swallow. Should I see a dr right away?
I am in pain in my face and have been using OTC pain relievers and ice and heat to no avail

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You should see a doctor right away.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. Yes, seek medical attention.

2. A painful swelling arising this quickly would suggest a salivary gland swelling, a lymph node or an abscess. Parotid salivary gland swellings are very painful.

3. A direct examination, Neck USG (Ultrasound) and an FNAC (Fone Needle Aspiration Cytology) will settle the diagnosis. The oral cavity including the teeth should be examined. Upload close-up images if possible.

4. Intravenous medication will help better. Routine blood tests should be done.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj