Ear Lumps in Children: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

Lumps behind/in front of the ear that hurt when a child opens their mouth or chews may indicate:

1. Swollen Lymph Nodes: From infection/inflammation in ear, nose, throat, or scalp.
2. Mumps: Viral infection swelling parotid glands (below ears) → pain with chewing/opening mouth.
3. Ear Infections: Severe/recurrent infections cause swelling/tenderness around ear.
4. Dental Issues: Impacted/wisdom teeth causing jaw pain radiating to ear area.
5. Mastoiditis: Bacterial infection of mastoid air cells behind ear (complication of untreated ear infection) → pain, swelling, fever, headache.
6. Tumors: Rare; benign or malignant tumors considered after common causes ruled out.

Consult a pediatrician or ENT specialist promptly for examination, history review, and possible imaging/blood tests. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.