Mumps is a type of severe viral infection that occurs due to the Mumps rubulavirus affecting the salivary or parotid glands that are located the inner side of the cheeks, beneath the ears or the underlying epithelial tissues. There are 3 sets of salivary glands located on either side and the infection can occur on one or both sets of salivary glands present on either side of the cheeks. Also Read: Noro Virus Infection: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Mumps is an extremely contagious infection that can easily spread from one person to another within closed quarters through the nasal secretions and saliva when a person is sneezing or coughing. The virus usually travels from the respiratory tract to the salivary glands and breeds which cause the glands to get inflamed. One can also get infected by the mumps virus by sharing the same articles or eating in the vessel as that of an infected person. The mumps virus can also cause muscle pain, meningitis, pancreatitis, deafness, swelling of testicles or ovaries, heart problems, and miscarriage.

mumps symptoms

Symptoms:

The usual signs and symptoms of mumps only show after an incubation period of 10 to 14 days from the time your body has been exposed to the virus.  It usually characterizes promptly visible swollen cheeks followed by:

  • Pain while swallowing or chewing
  • Pain in the swollen cheeks
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Muscle ache
  • Loss Of appetite
  • Weakness or fatigue

Diagnosis And Treatment:

It is strictly advised to consult a doctor or health care professional once you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms. The doctor usually performs a physical examination to confirm the infection followed by swab testing of saliva and blood test if required.

Treatment options usually include taking pain-reducing medications and getting immunized by the MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccine that prevents the person from already suffering from this viral infection from getting it again in the near future. Also Read: What are the health benefits of vaccinations?

The mumps infection usually runs a course of 7 days after which you slowly start to recover. The doctor may also suggest some home remedies to reduce the swelling which are:

  • Take adequate rest
  • Apply warm or cold packs on the cheeks to soothe the part
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Go on a soft diet like yogurt or soup

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.