Parotitis

Parotitis is an inflammation of the parotid gland, which is one of the salivary glands located near the ears. There are several causes of parotitis, including viral infections, bacterial infections, and blockages in the duct that drains saliva from the gland. The most common cause of parotitis is a viral infection, such as mumps, which can cause the parotid gland to become swollen and tender.

People with parotitis can present with swollen and tender parotid, fever, dry mouth, and difficulty opening the mouth. The management involves rehydration, antibiotics when necessary, and vaccination against the mumps virus.