Parotid Gland Enlargement and Symptoms

The parotid gland is the largest of the salivary glands. Located between the upper cheek area and ear, the parotid gland’s function is to produce saliva and enzymes used to break down food through chewing to facilitate digestion. Due to a variety of conditions and causes, the parotid gland may become enlarged. Infections, viruses and cancers are just a few of the conditions that can lead to enlargement.

While an enlarged parotid gland in itself isn’t much cause for concern, bear in mind that it is usually a symptom of an underlying condition and not a condition itself. Some of these can be rather serious, if left untreated. Here are some symptoms that are commonly associated with an enlarged parotid gland and what they could be indicative of.

Growths and tumors on the parotid gland usually present in the form of a lump or nodule somewhere in the cheek, jaw or neck. Some may be painful while others may not. The growths can obstruct the body’s ability to produce saliva, making chewing and swallowing difficult. If the growths are cancerous and not removed, the cancerous cells can spread to other areas of the head, neck and body. Cysts, which are tiny, fluid filled sacs, can also present on the parotid gland after an injury or infection.

Infections are another common reason that a parotid gland may enlarge. Sialadenitis is an infection of a salivary gland itself, usually caused by bacteria. Even infants can have this condition in the first weeks of life. Viral infections, like mumps, can cause swelling of the parotid gland. Systematic infections that settle in surrounding lymph nodes can also contribute to the enlargement of the parotid gland. When an infection of either type is present, it’s usually marked by painful, swollen glands, difficulty swallowing and a high fever.

Other conditions, not related to an infection, are also known to cause an enlarged parotid gland. Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic auto-immune disorder that causes the body’s immune defenses to attack the salivary glands, the tear glands and sweat glands. Aside from a swollen parotid gland, this syndrome can produce dry mouth and dry eyes. Sialolithiasis is a condition where small, calcium-rich stones form inside the salivary glands. Although the stones themselves are harmless, some of them may cause pain and swelling along with a decreased production of saliva.

Without a throughout exam, it is not possible to determine the cause of an enlarged parotid gland. Some of these conditions may resolve on their own while others may need surgical intervention to correct. Dr. Larian performs a battery of specialized tests to determine not only the source of the enlarged gland, but also to formulate a treatment plan that will alleviate the patient’s symptoms and deter further progression of a benign condition into a more serious one. If you are experiencing swollen glands, whether or not they are accompanied by any of the aforementioned symptoms, schedule a consultation as soon as possible.