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Revision as of 17:45, 19 December 2012
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Parotitis |
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Parotitis On the Web |
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For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click here
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Overview
Salivary gland infections are viral or bacterial infections of the saliva-producing glands.
There are three pairs of major salivary glands.
The two largest are the parotid glands, one in each cheek over the jaw in front of the ears. Inflammation of one or more of these glands is called parotitis, or parotiditis.
All of the salivary glands empty saliva into the mouth through ducts that open at various locations in the mouth.
What are the symptoms of Parotitis?
- Abnormal tastes, foul tastes
- Decreased ability to open the mouth
- Dry mouth
- Fever
- Mouth or facial pain, especially when eating
- Redness over the side of the face
- Swelling of the face (particularly in front of the ears)
What causes Parotitis?
Parotid gland infections are somewhat common, and they can return in some people.
Viral infections such as mumps often affect the salivary glands (mumps most often causes parotiditis). Mumps is a rare infection today because of immunization with the MMR vaccine.
Bacterial infections usually result from a blockage (such as salivary duct stones) or poor oral hygiene. They can be seen in people who are dehydrated and in the hospital.
Who is at highest risk?
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your health care provider if:
- You have symptoms of a parotid gland infection
- You've been diagnosed with a parotid gland infection and symptoms get worse, especially if your fever increases or you have breathing or swallowing difficulty (these may be emergency symptoms).
Diagnosis
An examination by the health care provider or dentist will show that the parotid glands are enlarged. Pus may drain into the mouth. The gland may be painful, most often if there is an infection caused by bacteria.
A CT scan or ultrasound may be done if the doctor suspects an abscess.
Treatment options
In some cases, no treatment is needed.
If there is pus or a fever, or if the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be prescribed. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.
If there is an abscess, surgery to drain it or aspiration may be done.
Practice good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth and flossing thoroughly at least twice per day may help with healing and prevent an infection from spreading. If you are a smoker, stop smoking to help with recovery.
Warm salt water rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water) may be soothing and keep the mouth moist.
Drink lots of water and use sugar-free lemon drops to increase the flow of saliva and reduce swelling. Massaging the gland with heat may help.
Where to find medical care for Parotitis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Parotitis
Prevention
In many cases, parotid gland infections cannot be prevented. Good oral hygiene may prevent some cases of bacterial infection.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Most parotid gland infections go away on their own or are cured with treatment. Some infections will return. Complications are not common, but they may occur.
Possible complications
- Abscess of the gland
- Infection returns
- Spread of infection (cellulitis, Ludwig's angina)