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What You Should Know About Mumps

Mumps was much more common throughout the 1960s than today, thanks to vaccinations. Occasionally, Americans do still get mumps. If you suspect that you have mumps or experience strange symptoms, you might wonder if it is time to schedule a doctor's office visit.

Mumps is an infection of the saliva glands, which sit between the jaw and ear. This infection is most common in young children and teenagers, but adults can get it too. These are some of the common questions people have about mumps and what you can do to address them.

What Are the Symptoms of Mumps?

Mumps has a variety of symptoms, including exhaustion, fever, muscle aches, swollen jaws, puffy faces (especially the cheeks), and headaches. You may lose your appetite too. In some people, these symptoms are relatively mild. In other cases, they are quite much more severe.

In rare and severe cases, people with mumps can face hearing loss, swelling of the brain, infection of the brain, arthritis, and kidney problems. Death related to mumps is possible but extremely rare.

How Are You Diagnosed With Mumps?

Mumps diagnosis can come from blood tests, throat swabs, and nose swabs. The doctor will ask about your symptoms before performing these tests. They will check for other conditions as well, ensuring that mumps is the likely cause of your symptoms rather than something else that requires quick treatment.

What Is Treatment Like for Mumps?

Mumps typically takes several weeks to go away. Unfortunately, it cannot typically be cured with medication. This is a condition that typically needs to run its course, which means you may be uncomfortable for a while. Fortunately, doctors will do their best to ensure that you are as comfortable as you possibly can be.

Mumps is very contagious, so it is important to stay home when you have it. The good news? You cannot get the virus again once you have it. In the meantime, make sure to keep your distance from others.

Do You Need to See a Doctor?

Yes, you should see a doctor if you suspect you have mumps. This is a serious condition that calls for serious action, especially if your symptoms worsen significantly.

If you think you might have mumps or a similar condition, call your doctor's office today. You should schedule an appointment to have your symptoms checked out and possibly to receive treatment, comfort, and advice for getting better.