Parotid lesion and/or TMJ

by ma
(Midwest)

I noticed a lump in front of my ear in the preauricular area. It has a burning sensation, as well. Went to family doctor she stated that is was probably a swollen gland, nothing to worry about. The burn came and went off and on for the past year. A couple weeks ago I began having earache-like pain and the burning feeling got even worse. Headaches and body aches, hoarse voice and low grade fever, as well. I made an appointment with ENT and the family doctor. Family doctor said there was no ear infection and that it could be nerve related and referred me to ENT (same one I already called) and prescribed pain meds. The pain meds are terrible and make me feel worse so I stopped taking them. Went to ENT yesterday and he said possible parotid lesion and TMJ. He prescribed antibiotics and got a cat scan scheduled for next week. Now the pain has intensified. The burning sensation is terrible and my ear hurts deep inside. I have a fever and chills. I even tried the pain meds which don't help. I called the Dr on call and they couldn't help much. Am going to ER if not better soon. I am a worrier, which doesn't help. Do you have any advice?

Possible Parotid Lump

Interesting history. If the lump is thought to be a parotid lump it could be due to many different causes ranging from a tumor such as an adenoma, to an infection such as TB, viral infections and many others, to conditions such as Sarcoidosis. You might a stone in the Parotid duct. This is a real possibility as the pain can become severe with the build up of Parotid secretions and if you get a secondary infection in this, it really can be very severe.

If you are in a lot of pain, I would agree with you about the option of the ER. Let us know what this is when you have more information!




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