Would Ibuprofen Help Treating Large Painless Lump On The Mastoid Bone?

Posted on Sat, 30 Nov 2013

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

Sat, 30 Nov 2013 Answered on

Mon, 16 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. Yesterday I noticed a fairly large lump on the mastoid bone behind my right ear. It is hard, but not painful. Would an anti-inflammatory drug, like ibuprofen, help?

Answered by Dr. Robert Galamaga (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Recommendations Detailed Answer: hello and thank you for sending the question. This is most likely a reactive lymph node. this can sometimes happen in a setting of infection or reaction to something in the environment including viruses. usually this type of thing will still be resolved in a couple of weeks. You might consider ibuprofen as prescribed by your doctor or as recommended by your local pharmacist. This might help to limit the duration or discomfort associated with swelling. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks you absolutely need to see your local doctor for a good physical examination, evaluation, and discussion regarding other possible causes. Thank you very much again for sending your question. Dr. Galamaga

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar