Summary about Disease
Submandibular gland swelling refers to the enlargement of one or both of the submandibular glands, which are located beneath the jaw on either side of the neck. This swelling can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, salivary stones, or, less commonly, tumors. The swelling can be painful or painless, and it may be accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty swallowing or dry mouth. Accurate diagnosis is important to determine the underlying cause and implement appropriate treatment.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of submandibular gland swelling include:
Visible swelling or lump under the jaw
Tenderness or pain in the affected area
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Dry mouth
Redness or warmth over the swelling
Fever (if the swelling is due to an infection)
Pain while eating, especially sour foods, which stimulate saliva production.
Causes
The causes of submandibular gland swelling can vary:
Infection: Bacterial or viral infections (like mumps) are common causes.
Salivary Stones (Sialolithiasis): Mineral deposits can block the salivary duct, causing saliva to back up and swell the gland.
Inflammation (Sialadenitis): Inflammation of the gland can occur due to infection or other irritants.
Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the submandibular gland, although less common, can cause swelling.
Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dryness and swelling of salivary glands.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Can contribute to bacterial infections leading to swelling.
Medicine Used
The medications used to treat submandibular gland swelling depend on the underlying cause:
Antibiotics: For bacterial infections (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate, clindamycin).
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and inflammation.
Sialagogues: Medications that stimulate saliva production (e.g., pilocarpine) to help clear blockages.
Corticosteroids: In some cases, for inflammation (e.g., prednisone).
Surgery: If salivary stones are large or tumors are present, surgical removal may be necessary.
Is Communicable
Whether submandibular gland swelling is communicable depends on the underlying cause. If the swelling is due to a viral infection like mumps, it is communicable. If it is due to salivary stones, a tumor, or Sjögren's syndrome, it is *not* communicable.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the cause. If the swelling is due to a communicable infection:
Good Hygiene: Frequent handwashing.
Avoid Sharing: Avoid sharing utensils, drinks, and personal items.
Isolation: Stay home from school or work to prevent spreading the infection.
Vaccination: Ensure vaccination against mumps and other viral causes if applicable. For non-communicable causes:
Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to promote saliva flow.
Avoid Irritants: Limit acidic or irritating foods that may worsen inflammation.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of submandibular gland swelling depends on the cause and treatment:
Infection: With appropriate antibiotic treatment, swelling due to bacterial infection may start to resolve within a few days and resolve completely within 1-2 weeks. Viral infections may take longer (up to 2 weeks or more).
Salivary Stones: Swelling can be intermittent, occurring when the duct is blocked and subsiding when it clears. Without treatment, stones can cause chronic or recurrent swelling.
Inflammation: Can last for several days to weeks, depending on the severity and treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of submandibular gland swelling typically involves:
Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the area, looking for swelling, tenderness, and other signs.
Medical History: Review of symptoms and past medical conditions.
Imaging Studies:
Ultrasound: To visualize the gland and identify stones or tumors.
CT Scan or MRI: May be used to evaluate the extent of the swelling and identify more complex issues.
Sialography: X-ray of the salivary ducts after injecting a contrast dye to look for blockages.
Biopsy: If a tumor is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to determine if it is benign or malignant.
Blood Tests: To check for infection or autoimmune conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary:
Sudden Onset: Swelling due to acute infection or a blocked salivary duct may develop rapidly over a few hours or days.
Gradual Onset: Swelling due to chronic inflammation or a slow-growing tumor may develop gradually over weeks or months.
Intermittent Swelling: Salivary stones may cause swelling that comes and goes, often related to eating.
Progression: If left untreated, swelling may worsen, causing increased pain, difficulty swallowing, and systemic symptoms like fever.
Important Considerations
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you experience sudden or severe swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a high fever.
Rule Out Serious Causes: It's crucial to identify the underlying cause to rule out more serious conditions like tumors.
Complete Antibiotic Courses: If prescribed antibiotics, finish the entire course, even if symptoms improve, to ensure complete eradication of the infection.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: This helps prevent infections and promotes overall health.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for keeping the salivary glands functioning properly.
Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your condition and treatment progress.