### instruction:
If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patient's description.

### input:
I have a huge hard lump under my ear. It has been there for almost 5 years. Im not sure if it is a lymph node or a lump. It has grown over the years and has never gone away, not for a single day. It has though, increased and decreased in size, and seems to get bigger when I am stressed. It also seems smaller when I first wake up in the morning but immediately gets bigger. I had a doctor tell me years ago that it was a swollen lymph node due to the hole I have in my eardrum so that it could fight infection. He told me later on another visit that it was a cyst, which I should not worry about(because I have a couple of cysts....supposedly, in my hand). I am concerned that this could be lymphoma or some other serious problem.

### output:

Welcome to Chat Doctor. 1. The history and symptoms suggest most possible cause could be Sebaceous cyst - which does not need any specific treatment unless until causing discomfort or cosmetic issues.2. Next possible cause could be lymph nodal enlargement - but does not expect to see for so long with no change.3. In this case I would recommend getting an ultrasound scan done-that will characterize the lesion (cystic / solid / mixed) and its source and extensions. 4. In case of mass lesion an FNAC - fine needle aspiration cytology would help to evaluate the nature of cells.5. Suggest to get an appointment with your GP, get examined and needful investigations and treatment will help. Good luck. Hope I have answered your query.Anything to ask do not hesitatehttp://doctor. ChatDoctor .com/doctors/ Chat Doctor. 