Do I Have Sialadenitis?

Are you in your 50s and 60s?

Do you have swelling in the face in front of the ear or under the jaw (usually only on one side of your face)?

Do you have pain in the affected area (in front of the ear or under the jaw), especially while eating?

Do you have redness over the side of your face or upper neck?

Do you have enlarged and tender glands under the jaw or in front of your ear?

Do you have dryness or a feeling of stickiness in your mouth?

Do you have foul taste or gritty feeling in your mouth?

Do you have fever and chills?

Have you noticed pus in your mouth (it may drain through the salivary gland into your mouth)?

Do you have diagnosis of dry mouth (xerostomia), Sjögren syndrome or anorexia?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have sialadenitis. Sialadenitis is inflammation of the salivary glands. There are three main pairs of salivary glands which are located on the side of your face in front of the ears (parotid gland), under your jaw (submandibular gland) and under your tongue (sublingual gland). Swelling and pain of the salivary glands can be caused by various infections so if you have any symptoms that concern you please make an appointment with your otorhinolaryngologist. Good oral hygiene and adequate fluid intake are the basis for maintaining oral health.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have sialadenitis. Sialadenitis is inflammation of the salivary glands that produce and secrete saliva into your mouth through small openings. Sialadenitis can be caused by salivary stones, infection, or an underlying autoimmune disorder but commonly it is caused by dehydration. Poor fluid intake makes your saliva thick resulting in impaired function of the salivary glands. Sialadenitis usually affects the parotid and submandibular glands. Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, increasing fluid intake, applying warm compresses or massaging over the affected area. Please consult with your doctor about the best treatment option for you.