Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands. The infection is caused by the mumps virus, which is spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva, from an infected person. The most common symptoms of mumps include swelling and pain in the cheeks and jaw, fever, headache, and muscle aches. In some cases, mumps can also cause more serious complications, such as meningitis, encephalitis, and deafness.

Symptoms of Mumps

The initial symptoms of mumps usually appear 14 to 18 days after infection. The first sign of mumps is often a fever, which is often accompanied by a headache and muscle aches. As the infection progresses, the salivary glands in the cheeks and jaw begin to swell and become painful. This is often the most distinctive symptom of mumps and is the reason the disease is sometimes referred to as “the mumps.”

The swelling of the salivary glands can cause difficulty in opening the mouth, chewing, and swallowing. The person may also have difficulty speaking and have difficulty with the hearing. Along with this, the person may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of malaise.

In some cases, mumps can cause more serious complications. For example, up to one in four males who get mumps will develop inflammation of the testicles (orchitis), which can cause testicular pain and swelling. Mumps can also cause inflammation of the ovaries in females (oophoritis). This can lead to pelvic pain and, in rare cases, infertility.

Mumps can also cause meningitis, which is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis include headache, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light. Encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain, is a rare complication of mumps but can be serious and lead to permanent brain damage.

Mumps can also cause deafness, which is typically temporary but can be permanent. The risk of deafness is increased in people who have a pre-existing hearing problem.

Diagnosis of mumps is made by clinical examination, and it can be confirmed by a blood test or a swab from the back of the throat.

Treatment for Mumps

There is no specific treatment for mumps, and the infection usually resolves on its own within a few weeks. Treatment is primarily focused on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce fever and relieve pain. Applying a warm compress to the swollen glands can also help to reduce pain and discomfort.

It is important to get plenty of rest and to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. It is also important to avoid close contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus.

Mumps is preventable by vaccination. The mumps vaccine is typically given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is given to children at 12 to 15 months of age and again at 4 to 6 years of age. A booster dose is recommended for adults who are at high risk of exposure to mumps, such as health care workers and college students.

In conclusion, mumps is a contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands and can cause serious complications. Symptoms include swelling and pain in the cheeks and jaw, fever, headache, and muscle aches. There is no specific treatment for mumps, but symptoms can be relieved and complications can be prevented with proper care. Vaccination is the best way to prevent mumps.