My son got his MMR shot 8 days ago. Yesterday a nickel sized lump appeared behind his ear. He has no other symptoms of anything. It was after 8PM when I notices so we went to the quickcare. They said it was a swollen lymphnode and could be caused by any cold, flu virus, etc. They said not to be surprised if he gets sick soon. Its day 2, the lump is still there with no symptoms. I read all the doctor sites and they did say it could be a reaction to the shot, could be a cold or flu, but worst case could be lymphoma. What should I do now? Ignore it and assume its okay....head to the pediatrician...go to an ENT doc?? I am freaking out over it even thought I know he's probably okay...I need to know. What would you do? I don't wnat to put him through any unnecessary tests but I am really worried!
When I was a teenager I had one lymph node behind my ear swell up and it took months to go down, maybe even over a year (I forgot to keep checking after a while). I was a little run down when I noticed it but never sicker than a cold. It's worth getting the doctor to look at it and keep an eye on it but I wouldn't make yourself crazy over it.
My daughter had those about the same age. Give it a week. If it doesn't go away, go to his ped.
You've never noticed it before? I would think its ok but im not a doc. My son was born with pea sized bump behind each ear. Pedi said they are lymph nodes and perfectly normal. They stay swollen but he has severe seasonal allergies and he told me that keeps them inflammed. They don't hurt him either and he has never had any other symptoms. Run it by your pedi but I wouldn't freak out. :)
You went to QuickCare and the doctor told you it's likely caused by a virus. Lymphoma is a rare disease. I would not make the leap from a virus to lymphoma. Relax. A swollen lymph node is rarely serious. Multiple swollen nodes with a fever and a rash would be a reason for concern but one lymph node that has been seen by a doctor is not a reason to panic. Trust the doctor you've seen. If you don't trust him/her then call your son's pediatrician. But above all do not freak out about it. That's turning something minor into a major incident which is more dangerous to your health than the lymph node is to your son's health. And,,,,your anxiety will influence your son's sense of well being.
BTW I have a swollen lymph node in my neck that has been there for 20 years or more. Not a problem. Doctor checks it with each physical exam, looking to see if it's grown. It's not and so it's harmless.
