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Parotitis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Mootha , ENT
Parotitis, an inflammation of the parotid glands, presents a multifaceted challenge in the realm of medical diagnoses and treatments. This condition can arise from a multitude of etiologies, ranging from viral and bacterial infections to autoimmune disorders.
Understanding the underlying causes, symptoms, and potential treatments is imperative for both healthcare professionals and patients.
In this complete guide, we delve into the intricacies of Parotitis, exploring its prevention, causes, symptoms, complications, and treatment options.
What is Parotitis?
Parotitis is the inflammation of the parotid glands, the largest of your salivary glands, located on each side of your face near the ears. This condition can cause painful swelling, dry mouth, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Parotitis can result from viral or bacterial infections, blockages, or chronic health issues. Mumps is one of the most well-known viral causes. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve hydration, antibiotics, or warm compresses to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Who Does Parotitis Affect?
Parotitis can affect people of all ages, but certain groups are more at risk:
- Children, especially those who haven't been vaccinated against mumps
- Older adults, due to reduced saliva flow or dehydration
- People with poor oral hygiene
- Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to diabetes, HIV, or cancer treatment)
- Post-surgical or hospitalised patients, especially those not eating or drinking well
Good hydration and hygiene help reduce the risk in most cases.
What are the symptoms of a parotitis?
The clinical presentation of a swollen parotid gland can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling of one or both parotid glands
- Pain and tenderness over the affected gland
- Redness over the gland
- Fever and chills (in bacterial Parotitis)
- Dry mouth
- Pus discharge from the duct opening (in bacterial Parotitis)
What are the Causes of Parotitis?
Parotitis can occur due to infections, blockages, or other health conditions. The main parotitis causes of parotitis include:
Viral Parotitis
Viral Parotitis is most commonly associated with the mumps virus. Although mumps vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of this condition, outbreaks can still occur, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates.
Other viruses that can cause Parotitis include:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Influenza virus
Bacterial Parotitis
Bacterial Parotitis typically results from an ascending infection from the oral cavity. This can occur when there is reduced salivary flow, which may be due to dehydration, ductal obstruction, or poor oral hygiene.
Common bacteria implicated in bacterial Parotitis include:
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Streptococcus species
- Haemophilus influenzae
Autoimmune and Systemic Causes
Certain health conditions, such as Sjogren's syndrome, which causes dry mouth and dry eyes, can lead to long-term Parotitis. Other diseases, such as sarcoidosis and diabetes, may also increase the risk of developing Parotitis over time.
Other Causes
- Ductal Obstruction: Stones or strictures in the salivary ducts can lead to recurrent episodes of Parotitis.
- Tumours: Both benign and malignant tumours of the parotid gland can present with Parotitis.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as anticholinergics, can reduce salivary flow and predispose individuals to Parotitis.
Is Parotitis contagious?
Parotitis can be contagious, but it depends on the cause:
- Yes, if viral (like mumps): It spreads through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils. Mumps is highly contagious without vaccination.
- No, if bacterial or due to blockage: These types are not spread from person to person.
If you or your child has swelling near the jaw and signs of infection, stay home and consult a doctor, especially if mumps is suspected.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow is Parotitis Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose Parotitis through a combination of physical exam and simple tests:
Physical Examination
- The doctor will gently feel the swollen area near your jaw.
- They'll check for tenderness, redness, and pus from the salivary duct.
Medical History
- You'll be asked about recent illnesses, dehydration, poor oral hygiene, or dry mouth.
Imaging Tests (if needed)
- Ultrasound: To look for stones or abscesses
- CT scan or MRI: In more complex cases
Lab Tests
- Blood tests: To check for signs of infection
- Viral or bacterial swabs: Especially if mumps or other infections are suspected
- Microbiological Cultures: In cases of bacterial Parotitis, pus or saliva samples may be cultured to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy.
Accurate diagnosis helps decide the proper treatment and prevents complications.
What are the Treatment Options for Parotitis?
Treatment depends on the cause of the Parotitis, whether it's viral, bacterial, or due to a blockage. Here are the main options:
Medical Management
- Viral Parotitis (e.g., Mumps):
- Rest and hydration
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Cold or warm compresses to ease swelling
- Isolation (if contagious) to prevent spread
- Bacterial Parotitis:
- Antibiotics to treat the infection
- Gentle massage of the gland to help drain pus
- Warm compresses and increased fluid intake
- Sometimes, drainage if an abscess forms
- Blocked Salivary Duct (Sialolithiasis):
- Sucking on sour candies to boost saliva flow
- Gentle massage or warm compresses
- Minor procedure or surgery to remove the stone if it doesn't pass naturally
- Chronic or Recurrent Parotitis:
- Address underlying conditions (like Sjogren's syndrome or HIV)
- Good oral hygiene and hydration
- Long-term monitoring and specialist care if needed
- Most cases resolve well with early treatment.
Surgical Management
Surgical intervention may be required in cases of ductal obstruction, abscess formation, or tumours. Procedures can range from ductal dilation and stone removal to partial or complete gland excision.
Supportive Care
- Hydration: Adequate hydration helps maintain salivary flow and prevent stasis.
- Sialogogues: Substances that stimulate saliva production, such as sour candies or medications like pilocarpine, can be beneficial.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent secondary infections.
When to See a Doctor for Parotitis?
You should see a doctor if you notice any of the following:
- Swelling near your jaw or cheek that lasts more than a day
- Pain when eating, chewing, or opening your mouth
- Fever, chills, or pus draining from the mouth
- Dry mouth or trouble swallowing
- Recurrent swelling in the same area
Prompt treatment helps prevent complications, such as abscesses or chronic gland damage. Early care ensures faster relief and better recovery.
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How Can I Prevent Parotitis?
You can lower your risk of Parotitis by following simple healthy habits:
- Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep saliva flowing.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush, floss, and get regular dental checkups.
- Avoid smoking: It dries out the mouth and raises infection risk.
- Treat dry mouth early: Use sugar-free lozenges or saliva substitutes.
- Stay up to date on vaccines, especially the MMR vaccine, to prevent mumps.
- Eat regularly: Chewing stimulates saliva production.
These steps help keep your salivary glands healthy and reduce your chances of infection.
Complications of Parotitis
If left untreated, Parotitis can lead to several complications, some of which can be severe:
- Abscess Formation
- Chronic Parotitis
- Spread of Infection
- Sialadenitis
Our Experience Treating Parotitis at Medicover Hospitals
At Medicover Hospitals, we have extensive experience diagnosing and managing parotitis in both children and adults. Our ENT specialists use advanced tools to quickly identify the cause, whether it's viral, bacterial, or due to a blocked duct.
We offer prepared treatment plans, from antibiotics and hydration therapy to minor procedures for stone removal. Our focus is always on relieving pain, restoring gland function, and preventing future episodes.
With compassionate care and expert follow-up, we help patients recover smoothly and comfortably.
