I have a lump on the mastoid bone that was infamed and painful to touch, beginning three days ago. Also, had sore spot in back of throat on same side. I took aspirin, gargled salt water, and used nazal spray as home treatment. Now, thelump is smaller and throat is much improved,, but the lump is still painful to the touch. Cannot place that side of my head on pillow. Do you think I can wait a week or so before seeing a doctor. I have side effects to many drugs, and want to avoid an antibiotic. Thank you. Charlotte
Hi, dairy have gone through your question. I can understand your concern. You may have some enlarged lymph node or cyst in that area. Ideally you should take a course of antibiotics. If it doesn't respond to treatment then you should go for biopsy. Most probably it is reactive lymph node.  But biopsy diagnosis is advisable.  Consult your doctor and take treatment accordingly. Hope I have answered your question, if you have doubt then I will be happy to answer. Thanks for using Chat Doctor. Wish you a very good health.