Patient's question:
A small lump has grown slightly behind and below the child's right ear. It can be moved and causes pain. I'm not sure if it's an inflamed lymph node. Just noticed it, and the child has had a sore throat and coughed with phlegm these past few days. What assistance would you like: Please help verify a few things, thank you...Doctor's answer:
The human body has the most lymph nodes arranged in the submandibular region, with submandibular lymph nodes located on both sides below the lower jaw. If there is inflammation in the facial area, nose, and mouth, or the pharynx, bacteria or viruses can travel through lymph fluid along lymphatic vessels to the submandibular lymph nodes, causing inflammatory changes in these nodes. Infants and young children have a higher chance of bacterial infections in the mouth and throat, and since their lymph nodes are not fully developed, their protective function is poor. Therefore, if they are infected by pathogens, not only will the lymph nodes become inflamed, but the bacteria can also easily spread throughout the body. When an infant's submandibular lymph nodes are inflamed, symptoms may include excessive drooling, fever, reduced appetite, drooping neck, and the ability to palpate swollen lymph nodes in the neck, with local skin redness. In severe cases, it can lead to sepsis. Therefore, if infants and young children develop pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or oral ulcers, they should be treated promptly.Children with recurrent respiratory infections are commonly referred to as "repeated infection children." It is generally believed that those who suffer at least one respiratory infection per month are classified as "repeated infection children." This condition is the most common disease seen in pediatric hospitals. The incidence rate in cities is over 32%, while in rural areas, it exceeds 24%.
Experts have investigated the reasons for the high incidence of recurrent respiratory infections in children and identified the following main factors:
(1) Premature infants and children with certain congenital defects, due to innate cardiopulmonary dysfunction and immune system deficiencies, are prone to recurrent respiratory infections.
(2) Poor nutrition, such as children lacking breast milk and improperly fed with insufficient supplementary foods, can weaken their constitution. This may lead to deficiencies in iron, zinc, or protein intake, making them more susceptible to recurrent respiratory infections.
(3) Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A promotes children's growth and development, enhances the body's resistance, and repairs the respiratory epithelium. For this reason, some call it the "anti-infection vitamin," and it should be administered to recurrent infection children according to regulations.
(4) Low calcium intake. Insufficient calcium can severely weaken the immune system and inhibit the ciliary activity of the respiratory epithelium, making it difficult to expel respiratory secretions and creating favorable conditions for recurrent infections.
Generally speaking, children's organ systems are not fully developed, their physiological functions are immature, and their bodies are delicate, with weak respiratory protective functions. These are also important underlying conditions that make children susceptible to respiratory infections.
The above suggestions are for the issue of "a small lump slightly behind the ear." I hope it helps you. Wishing you good health!