Mumps is one of the many diseases caused by viruses, affecting many. This virus causes painful swelling in parotitis, the parotid salivary glands. Its primary treatment plan is to reduce its symptoms and let the disease complete its course. Although the symptoms are usually mild, patients must also be cautious of serious complications. It can be controlled with the MMR vaccine.

What are Mumps?

A virus causes this disease and affects the glands present on each side of the face. These glands make saliva and are present around your jaws and in front of your ear. People who are not vaccinated have higher chances of getting this disease. If a vaccinated person gets infected, they will have mild symptoms and fewer complications.

This disease can quickly spread through sneezing and coughing. Irrespective of age, people can get this disease. However, it is more common between 5 and 19 years old. It can take between 12 and 24 days after getting infected to get symptoms of this disease. Even though the symptoms may not be severe, they should not be left unattended, or else they may have serious complications for life.

Once a person is infected with this virus, the chances of getting it again in their lifetime are scarce. Hence, MMR or the measles mumps rubella is a good prevention option.

Symptoms of Mumps

Some mumps symptoms are listed below:

  • Fever
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Inflammation in salivary glands
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Muscle pain
  • Pain in jaw or ear
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain while swallowing or chewing
  • Tenderness or pain in the testicles of men
  • Swelling around ovaries in female

Mumps Complication

Swollen testicles are one of the common complications of mumps disease. One out of three males who are affected by this disease after puberty have pain and swelling in their testicles. This is often a sudden swelling and affects only one testicle. Besides, the testicle may also be tender and warmer than usual.

This swelling will start four to eight days post-swelling in their salivary glands. In some cases, it may even happen after six weeks. This disease can also lead to aseptic meningitis, an infection of the covering of the spinal cord and brain and hearing loss in nearly 10 percent of infected people. Around 30 percent of females with puberty can also have swollen breasts, with some even having inflammation in their ovaries.

Mumps Treatment

The mumps do not have a particular medication. Its treatment plan includes reducing the symptoms, relieving pain and providing comfort. In case of severe complications, such as testicle swelling, the doctor may advise some painkillers. You can also apply a warm or cold compressor on the affected testicles. 

This disease can go away within one or two weeks. Here are a few things you can do to feel comfortable:

  • Take rest until you feel better.
  • Take painkillers as prescribed.
  • Drink plenty of water and fluids.
  • Warm and cold compresses should be done on the swollen glands.
  • Have a diet with less chewing, such as soups and mashed potatoes.

Read More: Easy Ways to Reduce Swollen Gums and Maintain Healthy Teeth

Final Thought

The MMR vaccine is the best way of preventing this infectious disease. This vaccination can provide immunity to most people and will be immune for life. The MMR vaccine can be given at any age, so if you are not vaccinated, it is an excellent option to get it. You can always check with your doctor and discuss it.