Pain in the neck below the ear can stem from several sources. One common cause is tension or injury in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, a large muscle located at the front of the neck. This can manifest as pain radiating behind the ear and down the neck and shoulder, sometimes accompanied by headaches, dizziness, or tingling.
Other potential causes include:
- Occipital Neuralgia: This condition results from pinched nerves or muscle tightness in the neck, potentially caused by head or neck injuries.
- Salivary Gland Infections: Infections in the parotid glands (located in front of and below each ear) can cause swelling and pain in the surrounding area. Symptoms may include fever, swelling of the face, and abnormal tastes.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: Problems with the jaw joint can lead to pain radiating to the ear and neck.
- Dental Problems: Infections or other dental issues may cause referred pain in the neck below the ear.
- Lymph Node Infection: A secondary infection in the lymph nodes from illnesses like a sore throat or cold can result in pain in the neck.
- Head and Neck Cancers: In some cases, pain in this area could be a symptom of head and neck cancers; however, this is less common than the other causes listed above. Other symptoms might include lumps, breathing or swallowing difficulties.
It's crucial to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management strategies.
