What is the treatment for parotitis (inflammation of the parotid gland)?

Treatment for parotitis depends on its cause, with most cases requiring supportive care including adequate hydration, warm compresses to the affected area, and pain management with acetaminophen or NSAIDs. For bacterial parotitis, antibiotics are essential, typically amoxicillin-clavulanate 875/125 mg twice daily for 7-10 days, or clindamycin 300-450 mg four times daily if penicillin-allergic. These antibiotics target common causative organisms like Staphylococcus aureus and oral anaerobes. Viral parotitis (like mumps) is managed symptomatically as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. For severe cases or abscess formation, hospitalization for IV antibiotics or surgical drainage may be necessary. Patients should maintain good oral hygiene, stay well-hydrated, and use sugar-free candies or gum to stimulate saliva production. If parotitis is recurrent or associated with systemic conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, treating the underlying disorder is crucial. Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks with appropriate treatment, but patients should seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or don't improve within 48-72 hours of treatment.