Only my right gland is swollen, causing my right ear to be really sore. what's wrong?

Which gland: Swollen lymph nodes can be the result of your body fighting an infection (common cold or skin infection). Even a cat scratch can result in node changes. There are lymph nodes in the area before your ears (pre-auricular) which if swollen can be uncomfortable and painful. See your physician who may give you a trial of antibiotics to see if this improves. Biopsy can be indicated if not better.