The parotid glands, which produce saliva are located at the back of each cheek between the ear and the jaw. When there is an inflammation of one or both the parotid glands, it is called parotitis, and when this inflammation is caused by a virus, it is called mumps. Mumps was common condition uptill the year 1971. It was only after the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine was licensed that the figures have dropped drastically. A single attack of mumps is said to give almost lifelong protection; so if your child has swollen salivary glands for the second time, confirm the reason for this occurrence as it could be something else! How Does One Contract Mumps? The condition is caused due to a RNA virus known as Rubulavirus. It belongs to the family of Paramyxoviridae. Since it is caused due to a virus, it spreads from person to person. An infected person can spread it to others by coughing, sneezing, and talking. A child or a grown up who drinks or eats from a cup or a plate which has been used by an infected person may also contract it. Anyone who has not had an MMR shot or mumps in the past can also contract it. Symptoms It is possible to know when a person is suffering from mumps, here are a few signs to watch out for. It is also important to note that in some cases the infected person may not experience any of the symptoms noted below.

• Swelling of one or both the parotid glands
• The throat feels tender and hurts while swallowing
• Fever which lasts for two to three days
• Sore muscles
• An earache
• Absence of hunger
• Nausea
• Adolescent boys or men sometimes experience a swelling in both the testes; however, it subsides within four days.

The aforementioned symptoms begin around 16-18 days after being exposed to the virus. In some cases, it can also start 12 to the 25 day of exposure to the virus. Care Tips

• You need to take care that the person affected by this condition gets plenty of rest.
• To ease the pain, a warm towel, a heating pad, or an ice pack can be used.
• Give the person plenty of liquids, this will prevent dehydration.
• Soft foods such as mashed potatoes, cooked cereals, and soups should be given.
• Avoid food which is sour, spicy, and hard to chew.
• Medicines which have been prescribed by the medical practitioner can be given in doses that have been advised.

Risks Though it is not considered a serious illness, mumps should be treated on time. If left untreated, it may cause the following problems:

• Swelling of the pancreas
• An infection of the brain or spinal cord, which may ultimately lead to brain damage
• Sterility in males
• Partial hearing loss