From the Guidelines
Yes, cervical swelling can be related to mumps, as the virus can cause swelling of the salivary glands, including those in the neck area. Mumps is a systemic illness that presents with swelling of 1 or more of the salivary glands, typically the parotid glands, but can also affect other areas, including the cervical region 1. The infection can cause a range of symptoms, including swelling, pain, and fever, and can lead to complications such as orchitis, meningitis, and permanent hearing loss.
Key Points to Consider
- Mumps is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets, and infected individuals should isolate themselves for about 5 days after gland swelling begins.
- The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is the best prevention method, typically given to children in two doses.
- Treatment for mumps is mainly supportive, and patients should rest, take over-the-counter pain relievers, apply warm or cold compresses to swollen areas, drink plenty of fluids, and eat soft foods that don't require much chewing.
- If you suspect mumps, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and management, as early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes 1.
Clinical Considerations
- It's essential to note that up to one-third of mumps cases do not cause salivary gland swelling, presenting instead as a respiratory tract infection, making diagnosis and management more challenging 1.
- The virus has been isolated from saliva from 7 days before through 8 days after onset of salivary gland swelling, highlighting the importance of prompt isolation and vaccination to prevent the spread of the disease.