A condition that can be characterized by inflammation and enlargement of one or more salivary glands is known as sialadenitis. These glands are usually the ones that secrete saliva into the mouth. There are two forms of sialadenitis: acute and chronic. The condition is often associated with pain, tenderness, redness and gradual localized swelling in the affected area.
What are the Symptoms of Sialadenitis?
There predisposing factors of acute sialadenitis are:
- Sialolithiasis
- Decrease in the flow
- Poor oral hygiene
- Exacerbation of low grade chronic sialoadenitis
The clinical features include:
- Painful swelling
- Reddened skin
- Edema of the cheek, periorbital region and neck
- Low grade fever
- Malaise
- Raised ESR, CSR
- Purulent exudates from duct punctum
The features of chronic sialadenitis are:
- Mild pain or swelling
- Red duct orifice and decrease in the flow
When should One Seek Medical Treatment?
In chronic sialadenitis, the acute attacks are managed with conservative therapies like hydration, analgesics, sialogogues to stimulate secretion of saliva. When the attacks get severe, which is more than 3 times per year, surgical excision of the affected gland is necessary. If the infection is present, appropriate cultures must be obtained followed by emprirical antibiotic therapy.
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