Pain-Free Mumps: When to Seek Further Medical Attention

Mumps does not cause pain?

Hello, on the morning of March 22, I noticed that both of my parotid glands were noticeably swollen.
There is no pain, no toothache, and no cold symptoms.
The swelling persisted the next day, so on March 23, I visited an ENT specialist who prescribed anti-inflammatory antibiotics and diagnosed me with parotitis.
Currently, there is still some swelling, but there is no pain at all.
I would like to know if I need to go to a larger hospital for further examination.
Thank you for your response.

Xiao Zhen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/26

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

If you do not experience relief (reduction in swelling) after three days, it is recommended to visit a major hospital for an ultrasound examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/03/26

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms related to swelling in the area of your parotid glands, which are the major salivary glands located near your ears. Based on your description, it seems you may be dealing with mumps or another form of parotitis, which is inflammation of the parotid glands.
Mumps is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands. It's important to note that mumps can occur even in vaccinated individuals, although the incidence is much lower. The fact that you are not experiencing pain is somewhat atypical, as mumps and other forms of parotitis usually present with discomfort or pain in the swollen area. However, the absence of pain does not rule out the possibility of an infection or other underlying issues.

You mentioned that you have already seen an ENT specialist who prescribed antibiotics. It's worth noting that antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections but not viral infections like mumps. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or pain, it would be prudent to seek further medical attention.

Here are some considerations for when to seek further medical evaluation:
1. Duration of Symptoms: If the swelling does not improve within a few days or continues to worsen, it may be necessary to return to your healthcare provider or seek a second opinion.

2. Development of New Symptoms: If you begin to experience fever, chills, or any signs of systemic infection, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

3. Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing: Any signs of respiratory distress or difficulty swallowing should be treated as emergencies, and you should seek immediate medical care.

4. Concern About Complications: Mumps can lead to complications such as orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries), or meningitis. If you have concerns about these potential complications, it would be wise to discuss them with your doctor.

5. Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms are not improving, or if you feel that your current treatment plan is not effective, do not hesitate to seek a follow-up appointment with a specialist or a larger medical facility that can provide more comprehensive care.

In summary, while your current symptoms may not seem alarming due to the lack of pain, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If there are any changes or if you have concerns about your health, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential infections or other medical issues.

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