Small bumps behind the ears are common and can cause concern. While many are harmless and resolve on their own, some situations require professional evaluation. Understanding the potential causes helps individuals know when medical advice is beneficial. This overview clarifies the types of bumps that can appear in this area and factors contributing to their formation.
Common Reasons for Bumps
One frequent cause of bumps behind the ears is swollen lymph nodes. These small, bean-shaped glands are part of the immune system, filtering harmful substances from the body. When the body fights an infection, such as a common cold, ear infection, strep throat, or a scalp infection, the lymph nodes behind the ears can enlarge as they filter pathogens. They are typically soft, movable, and may be tender to the touch, usually returning to normal size once the infection subsides.
Another common type of bump is a sebaceous cyst, also called an epidermoid cyst. These benign sacs form under the skin when a sebaceous gland or hair follicle becomes blocked, leading to a buildup of sebum and dead skin cells. Sebaceous cysts often feel soft or firm, are movable, and generally do not cause pain unless they become infected or inflamed, which can result in redness and tenderness. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
Lipomas are another benign cause, characterized as soft, fatty tumors that develop slowly between the skin and underlying muscle. These growths are typically painless and movable, though they can vary in size. While more common on other body parts, they can appear anywhere fat cells are present, including behind the ear.
Acne or folliculitis can appear as small bumps behind the ears, particularly if they are red, localized, and associated with hair follicles. Acne occurs when pores become blocked with sebum and dead skin cells, which can then become inflamed or infected, leading to painful pimples or larger cysts.
Less Common or Specific Conditions
Beyond the most frequent causes, other conditions can lead to bumps behind the ear. Mastoiditis is a serious bacterial infection of the mastoid bone, located just behind the ear. This condition often results from an untreated middle ear infection, causing severe swelling, pain, and redness behind the ear, potentially pushing the ear outward. Mastoiditis often presents with symptoms like fever, ear discharge, headache, and hearing loss in the affected ear.
Skin tags are small, benign growths of skin that can appear in various locations, including behind the ear. These are harmless and painless, consisting of skin and sometimes cartilage. While usually a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes become irritated if snagged by clothing or jewelry.
Various other benign tumors can rarely occur in this region. These might include osteomas, which are benign bone growths, or chondromas, which originate from cartilage. Such growths are typically slow-growing and often painless unless they impinge on nearby structures or become large.
In rare instances, a bump behind the ear could indicate a serious condition, such as a malignancy. While uncommon, certain cancers, like lymphoma or skin cancers, can appear as lumps. These might be hard, fixed in place, and potentially grow over time. However, these are infrequent and often accompanied by other systemic signs.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention for a bump behind the ear if it exhibits certain characteristics or is accompanied by additional symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional if a bump is persistent (does not resolve within a few weeks), or if it noticeably increases in size or changes its appearance. Any lump that rapidly grows or spreads should be evaluated promptly.
Signs of inflammation or infection warrant medical assessment. These include pain, tenderness, redness, or warmth around the bump. If the bump is accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or general malaise, it suggests an underlying infection requiring medical intervention.
Discharge or bleeding from the bump is also a clear indicator to see a doctor, as this could signify an abscess or a ruptured cyst. If the bump causes difficulty moving the head or jaw, or if there is associated ear pain or hearing loss, it suggests the bump might be affecting surrounding structures or indicates a serious condition like mastoiditis. A bump that feels hard, is immovable, or is fixed to deeper structures should also be examined by a doctor. Ultimately, if there is any concern or discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and guidance.