In its natural state, the lymph nodes behind the ears are small. They should not be more than 8 millimeters. If the lymph nodes behind the ear are inflamed, they increase. Then you need to undergo a thorough examination in a medical institution. Thus, it is possible to determine the cause of the pathology that has arisen. If the lymph node behind the ear is inflamed (you see a photo of how it looks in the article), such a process can be generalized or local. It usually occurs as a result of a certain reaction of the body to infections and the influence of harmful microorganisms. This phenomenon is called lymphadenopathy.
Structure of the lymph node system
The structure of peculiar biological filters consists of many vessels and ducts. Lymph nodes make up a whole network and provide the return of tissue fluid, which is outside the cardiovascular system, back. It is their cells that are responsible for the production of antibodies, with which the human body fights diseases. If the lymph nodes behind the ear are inflamed, this means that the process is disrupted, and you need torestore.
Among other things, these peripheral organs produce phagocytes that break down human waste. Accordingly, in case of inflammation of the lymph nodes, waste products are evacuated more slowly. This can provoke the development of some other pathologies.
Why are the lymph nodes behind the ears inflamed
The most common factor causing this pathology is an infectious process. It can be localized or systemic. Due to the close connection of the lymph nodes with the production of antibodies, inflammation is a reaction to the penetration of pathogens into the body. The pathology that manifests itself behind the ear is most often the result of infections that affect both the organ itself and the eyes and throat. Also, a similar phenomenon can be observed with some types of allergies.
If the lymph nodes behind the ear are inflamed and the process is accompanied by symptoms in the form of peeling and itching of the scalp, excessive hair loss, there may be a fungal infection in the body. This option causes an immediate visit to the doctor to identify the problem and fix it.
Other factors in the development of the inflammatory process
There are some other reasons for the enlargement of the lymph nodes that are behind the ears:
- Infections of a local nature, which usually enter the body through the temples, throat,scalp, auricle.
- Rubella.
- Adenoviral infection.
- Viral exanthema.
- Tonsillitis or pharyngitis.
- Pathology of the salivary glands.
- Taking certain medications.
What therapy is used if the lymph nodes behind the ear are inflamed
When the pathology is caused by an infectious way, treatment is prescribed with the mandatory use of antibiotics. Thanks to such drugs, inflammation is stopped, the lymph nodes decrease in size, and return to normal. If antibiotic therapy does not bring positive results, an additional study of the tests should be carried out. According to their results, additional therapeutic agents are prescribed.
