Questionthe left side of my neck just bellow my ear is swollen and is very painful, ive been to the dr. 3 times and they say it is my saliva glands now its doing it again.is this normal?what should be done ?
AnswerDear Sheila,
First off, let me say, I am sorry this is something you are going through. I had it one time many years ago, and have never forgotten how uncomfortable it is. Hopefully, this will be your last bout.
A salivary gland infection is caused by bacteria, but a different bacteria that causes mumps, which is viral. These infections can be seen below the ear, along the jawline, under the tongue. Usually, they are about the level of the back teeth. I am sure you are well-versed on the symptoms, but they cause pain/swelling/redness/tenderness on the outside, along with pus coming from inside the cheek at the opening of the duct, or gland.
It's often seen in people undergoing radiation therapy and people who have an immune system that is compromised, such as chronically ill people, etc. In people who don't qualify as one of the two above, those with the following risk factors are also prone: smokers, adults over 60, poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, recent bout of any illness that has lowered resistance, recent mouth infections, using medications that cause dry mouth, and having duct stones. Yes, you can get stones in your salivary glands, too.
Usually the treatment for the condition is taking a lot of fluids, antibiotics and controlling the pain.
In your case, for repeated infections, it is sometimes caused by decreased saliva, often from blockage of the duct by a stone, or a narrowing of the duct. At times, this gets worse after eating.
Some things you can do to help are to stop smoking, if you do smoke. Make sure you take a good intake of fluids, barring any medical condition you may have where the doctor has you watching your intake (such as kidney problems and congestive heart failure). Gland massage. Very good oral hygiene. Floss your teeth. Throw away your toothbrush after an illness. See your dentist on a routine basis. Use a good antiseptic mouthwash. Warm soaks and heating pads (be cautious in not burning the skin...use a low setting on the heating pad).
Another thing that may help is to use anything that will increase the flow of saliva in the mouth. Lemon juice, sucking on sourballs or lemon drops, dill pickles (barring any sodium restriction you may be on). Acetaminophen may help the pain (do not take over recommended amount EVER).
If the symptoms persist with treatment, or a fever persists, you need to followup again with your doctor. Perhaps, if this is becoming a chronic problem, you need to followup with a specialist.
I don't know your health history. Keep in touch with your physician for the best treatment for your case. That is always key.
Best of luck to you, Sheila. Very interesting question, and I appreciate you asking for help. I really enjoyed researching this one. If I can ever help you with anything, please don't hesitate to contact me. I hope my information was of some benefit to you today. Take care
Andrea
