Parotitis - Causes - Better Medicine

What causes parotitis?

Bacterial infections of the salivary glands are commonly a result of an obstruction, such as salivary duct stones or poor oral hygiene. Drugs that cause dry mouth, such as some antihistamines, can increase the risk of parotitis, as can cancer treatments such as radiation therapy.

What are the risk factors for parotitis?

A number of factors increase the risk of developing parotitis. Not all people with risk factors will get parotitis. Risk factors for parotitis include:

Close contact with a person infected with the mumps
Dehydration
Not being immunized with the MMR vaccine
Poor oral hygiene

INTRODUCTION

What is parotitis?

Parotitis is the name given to inflammation and infection of the salivary glands known as the parotid glands. Inflammation results in swelling of the tissues that surround the salivary glands, redness, and soreness. Salivary glands are responsible for producing saliva in the mouth, which has the important function of cleansing the mouth. Inflammation of the salivary glands reduces their ab... Read more about parotitis introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of parotitis?

Parotitis causes swelling and inflammation of the parotid glands that may result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms can vary in intensity among individuals.... Read more about parotitis symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is parotitis treated?

Antibiotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment for parotitis that is caused by a bacterial infection. Additionally, if a secondary infection occurs within the mouth due to the dysfunctional salivary glands, antibiotics can be prescribed. Such an infection is diagnosed by fever or the presence of pus in the mouth. If complications such as an abscess occur, surgical drainage or aspiration may be required.... Read more about parotitis treatments