Mumps Treatment
Mumps Treatment
Mumps is a viral infection that affects the salivary glands near a patient’s ears. Once a much more common ailment among the population, cases of the mumps have declined greatly since the development of a mumps vaccination. However, the virus is very contagious, so outbreaks of mumps are still possible, especially in crowded areas where they may be people who have not received the vaccine. At ID Care, we have the expert knowledge on viral infections to deliver detailed and personalized mumps treatment care in a comfortable environment.
Mumps Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of mumps is the swelling and pain in the salivary glands located below the ears. This can occur on just one or both sides of your face and can cause pain while chewing or swallowing. Other symptoms associated with mumps include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
If left untreated, mumps can cause serious complications, such as:
- Inflammation of the brain: The viral infection may spread to the brain and cause neurological problems that can be fatal.
- Swollen testicles: For males who have reached puberty, mumps can also lead to swelling in one or both testicles.
- Hearing loss: Patients may experience loss of hearing in one or both ears, sometimes permanently.
Mumps Diagnosis
If you experience mumps symptoms, make sure to visit the doctor as soon as possible. The mumps virus is extremely contagious for about nine days after your symptoms are noticeable, so it is important to consult with a medical professional to help limit the potential for spreading the virus to others. Our physicians will confirm if you have previously received the mumps vaccination to determine if the symptoms could be caused by another condition. They’ll also evaluate if you have been in environments where you might have been exposed to the virus. A blood test will be conducted if the mumps virus is suspected.
Treatment of the Mumps Virus
There is not a specific cure for mumps that will eliminate the virus from your system. Instead, our staff will work with you to create a personalized plan that emphasizes managing your pain and comfort. Some common methods that help alleviate pain include:
- Pain relievers: Since mumps is a virus, antibiotics are not effective. However, over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can reduce your pain.
- Warm or cold compresses: Placing compresses on your swollen glands can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Choose the right foods: If you have mumps, you will want to focus on eating soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing. Additionally, sour foods that produce saliva should be avoided.
- Drink fluids: As for most illnesses, making sure you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated is essential.
The length of the mumps virus symptoms varies for each patient, but you will likely stop being contagious after a few days. The virus will usually run its full course after a couple of weeks.
Receive Expert Care at ID Care
For your case of the mumps virus, or any other of a number of infectious diseases, you deserve specialized care from professionals who are experts in the field. At ID Care, our staff of over 40 board-certified physicians is trained to deliver comprehensive infectious disease care. Our treatment methods will help alleviate your symptoms and get you back to full health as quickly as possible. If you believe you are suffering from mumps or another infection, find which of our nine convenient practice locations is closest to you.
