OpenHealth Q&A

It's understandable to feel concerned about a new growth, especially given your active involvement in grappling, which can increase exposure to skin issues. A flat, non-tender spot behind your ear could be due to various reasons, including a benign cyst, a skin tag, or possibly an inflamed lymph node. However, it's good that you are attentive to potential skin infections, as early recognition is key.

Explanation:

A flat, non-tender growth behind the ear is often harmless, but monitoring it is wise. Potential causes include:

• Sebaceous cysts: Common and usually painless.
• Lymph nodes: Can become slightly swollen if there's an infection nearby and are typically tender.
• Skin infections: Less likely if it’s flat and non-tender, but worth considering in your context.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor the Growth: Observe any changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms (like tenderness or redness) over the next week.
2. Keep It Clean: Maintain good hygiene in the area, especially since you're active in grappling. This means showering promptly after training and avoiding touching or picking at the area.
3. Note Any Symptoms: If you notice other symptoms such as swelling, pain, or fever, these could indicate an infection, and you would need to address those immediately.
4. Consider Protective Measures: If grappling continues, ensure your training environment is clean and consider discussing with your coach or training partners about any concerns.

If the spot does change significantly or if you develop new symptoms, it would be prudent to seek medical advice for further evaluation.