Swollen Gland in Neck is Hurting

by Jade
(Australia)

I am a 14 year old female. I have a swollen gland on my upper neck on the right side, next to my cheek bone. It is only a small swelling and it is aching. I had a small grass tick above my ear 4 days ago and it began to swell a day after. Also I have a cat who is allowed outdoors and she scratched my eyelid on the same day as discovering the tick. I am not sure if there is a connection between the two issues or not.

This gland has never swollen before when I have had a tick in the same place. It actually has never swollen in my life. I am concerned if their might be a link.

The swelling is very small, 1cm by 1cm circle approx. It is causing my neck to ache.

What could be the cause? The tick, the scratch or something else? Also should I see a doctor, or call someone? Should i be worried?

Lymph Gland Swollen After Cat Scratch and Tick Bite

The lymph gland enlargement could have occurred for several reasons. Cat scratch fever is a potential cause as well as Toxoplasmosis, an infection that is spread by cat faeces. Often a self limiting illness, occasionally it needs treatment.

The tick if it bit you could also spread infection and can cause a condition called Lyme disease, caused by spirochetes. This would need antibiotic treatment. I would suggest getting this checked as you will probably need antibiotic treatment to clear it up.




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