Mumps

Overview

Mumps is a parotitis caused by the mumps virus. Early symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue, followed by pain and swelling of the parotid glands on one or both cheeks. Symptoms usually begin 16 to 18 days after infection and resolve within 7 to 10 days. Complications include meningitis, pancreatitis, permanent deafness, and rarely orchitis in males.

Symptoms

• Parotid gland swelling
• Fever
• Pain when chewing
• Headache
• Fatigue

Treatment

It is mostly self-limiting, managed primarily with rest, isolation, and symptomatic treatment. Maintain oral hygiene and manage fever and pain; vaccination is effective for prevention.

Dietary advice

Eat a light, easily digestible diet with liquid or soft foods, drink plenty of water, and avoid acidic and irritating foods.