From the Guidelines
Parotid gland swelling from purging typically resolves within 2-3 weeks after the purging behavior stops completely. This condition, often referred to as "chipmunk cheeks" or sialadenosis, is a result of the parotid glands' inflammation due to exposure to stomach acids and the mechanical stress of frequent vomiting 1. The recovery timeline can vary depending on the severity and duration of the purging behaviors, with some cases resolving in as little as one week while others may take up to a month.
Key Considerations
- No specific medications are typically needed to treat this condition, as it is self-limiting once the underlying cause is addressed.
- During recovery, staying well-hydrated, practicing good oral hygiene, and applying warm compresses to the affected area may help reduce discomfort.
- If swelling persists beyond 3-4 weeks after cessation of purging, or if it's accompanied by fever, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing, medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other potential causes such as infection or obstruction.
Underlying Condition
The most important aspect of treatment is addressing the underlying eating disorder through appropriate psychological and nutritional support, as eating disorders like bulimia nervosa can have severe complications and high mortality rates 1.
Management
- Psychological treatment to address the eating disorder is crucial.
- Nutritional support to ensure adequate nutrition and hydration.
- Monitoring for potential complications and providing supportive care as needed.
From the Research
Parotid Gland Swelling from Purging
- The parotid gland swelling associated with bulimia nervosa is often asymptomatic and bilateral 2.
- The swelling is usually related to nutritional deficiencies and the act of purging itself, rather than a direct result of the underlying eating disorder 3.
- There is no specific timeline given in the provided studies for when the parotid gland swelling resolves after purging stops.
- However, it is suggested that prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition can help avoid serious medical complications 2.
- Surgical management, such as superficial parotidectomy, may be considered in some cases where the swelling is severe and intractable to medical management 3.
Related Conditions
- Parotid gland swelling can also be caused by other conditions, such as infections, neoplasms, and obstructive disorders 4, 5.
- Sialadenosis, a chronic asymptomatic enlargement of the salivary glands, can be caused by systemic disease 5.
- High-resolution ultrasound can be used to assess the parotid gland and differentiate between benign and malignant neoplasms 6.
Management and Treatment
- Treatment of parotid gland swelling typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as nutritional deficiencies or infections 2, 4.
- Conservative measures, such as optimizing predisposing factors, controlling pain, and increasing salivary flow, can be effective in managing most disorders 5.
- Sialendoscopy, a gland-sparing technique, can be used to treat obstructive and nonobstructive disorders 5.