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What Causes Swollen Lymph Node, Night Sweats And Itching Throughout Body?
Hi. I am a 31 year old mum of 3. I have had a hard, immobile lump behind my left ear which I believe is a lymph node. It has been there for around a year or so. Every now and then I get night sweats but they are mild and not every night. I constantly itch everywhere, especially my legs at night. I am also constantly tired but as I said I am a mum of 3! I m not too worried as this lump has been there a while. Should I be worried? Thanks in advance, Natasha.
Fri, 2 Jan 2015
Hello and welcome to HCM,
Hard immobile lump behind the ear could be due to lymph node enlargement.
Lymph node enlargement is most commonly due to infections and inflammations.
The swelling needs to be investigated.
Aspiration cytology is the first line investigation wherein a needle is inserted into the swelling.
The cells are spread onto a slide and stained with appropriate stains.
The cells are studied to know the origin and nature of the lesion.
Appropriate management can be done after relevant investigations.
Tiredness can be due to anemia or low hemoglobin.
Nights sweats is indicative of tuberculosis.
Constant itching can be due to skin allergy or any other skin lesion.
Thus, consult your primary healthcare provider for clinical assessment, relevant investigations and management.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Hard immobile lump behind the ear could be due to lymph node enlargement.
Lymph node enlargement is most commonly due to infections and inflammations.
The swelling needs to be investigated.
Aspiration cytology is the first line investigation wherein a needle is inserted into the swelling.
The cells are spread onto a slide and stained with appropriate stains.
The cells are studied to know the origin and nature of the lesion.
Appropriate management can be done after relevant investigations.
Tiredness can be due to anemia or low hemoglobin.
Nights sweats is indicative of tuberculosis.
Constant itching can be due to skin allergy or any other skin lesion.
Thus, consult your primary healthcare provider for clinical assessment, relevant investigations and management.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
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