Causes
A variety of factors can lead to an inflamed parotid gland. They include:
- Viral infection
-
A blockage may block saliva flow and lead to a bacterial infection; causes include:
- Salivary stone in the parotid gland
- Mucus plug in a salivary duct
- Tumor (usually benign)
- Sjogren’s syndrome —an autoimmune disease
- Sarcoidosis
- Malnutrition
- Radiation treatment of head and neck cancer can lead to parotid gland inflammation
- Other conditions can cause the parotid glands to become enlarged, but not infected, including:
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Discuss these risk factors with your doctor:
-
Lifestyle:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Not vaccinated against mumps
- Age: older than age 65
-
Medical conditions:
- HIV-positive or AIDS
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Diabetes
- Malnutrition
- Alcoholism
- Bulimia
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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