Salivary Gland Swelling Treatment
WHAT IS A SALIVARY GLAND CONDITION?
There are various conditions that can affect the salivary glands. The common ones are as follows:
- Sialolithiasis: when calcium accumulates to form stones that block the salivary glands
- Sialadenitis: when a bacterial infection causes the formation of stones in the glands that block the production of saliva
- Sjogren’s syndrome: when white blood cells target the healthy “moisture-producing” cells, such as the salivary, sweat, and oil glands.
- Viral infections: infections caused by viruses, such as flu virus, mumps, coxsackievirus, echovirus, and cytomegalovirus.
- Cancerous or noncancerous tumors
SYMPTOMS?
Symptoms of Sialolithiasis include:
- Painful lump under the tongue
- Pain while eating
Symptoms of Sialadenitis include:
- Lumps in the cheeks or under the chin
- Pus that drains into the mouth
- Fever
- Foul-smelling pus
Symptoms of viral infections include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Swelling on both sides of the face
- Headache
Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome include:
- Dry mouth and eyes
- Decaying teeth
- Sores in the mouth
- Joint pain or swelling
- Fatigue
- Swollen salivary glands
- Frequent infections
SALIVARY GLAND SWELLING TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Depending on the type of condition you are experiencing, the treatment options will vary. If you happen to experience a mass in your glands, you may need to surgically remove them or use radiation therapy in case of cancerous ones. For infections, however, antibiotics and other medication can be administered to treat the site. Regardless of treatment type and method, it is always good to practice good oral hygiene to either prevent or control any conditions that may occur.
PRE AND POST-TREATMENT STEPS?
It is always good to discuss with the doctor the dos and don’ts to follow before and after the treatment. General steps you may be asked to follow, however, could include:
- Drinking more fluids
- Avoid high-sodium foods
- Rinsing the mouth with a saline solution
- Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing twice a day
PREVENTIVE MEASURES?
The best and easiest way to prevent salivary gland conditions is to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing twice a day can help prevent tooth decay and other conditions that could lead to salivary gland issues.
Visit Dr. K O CHAN for Salivary Gland Swelling Treatment.
