Mumps Symptoms 1. Early symptoms are uncommon but may include fever, loss of appetite, achiness, and headache. Temperature is moderately high, usually lasting for 3-4 days. 2. Swelling of the glands under and in front of the ear usually starts on one side and then progresses to the other side rapidly. Swelling may last from 7-10 days. Eating or drinking acidic or citric foods causes much discomfort. 3. Other symptoms may include testicular pain (in males), abdominal pain, seizures, stiff neck, and difficulty swallowing. 4. Orchitis is the most feared complication of mumps. This condition causes severe pain, swelling, and tenderness in a male's testicles. Orchitis is mostly on one side but can involve both testicles. When to Seek Medical Care Call the doctor if your child develops any of these conditions: 1. Dehydrated and unable to keep any fluids down 2. Continuing vomiting 3. Lethargic (weak and listless) 4. Pain or a stiff neck 5. Abdominal pain 6. Enlarged and painful scrotum Go to the hospital's emergency department if your child develops these conditions: 1. Dehydrated (dry mucous membranes, dry skin, decreased urine output, and change in mental status) 2. Listlessness 3. Stiff neck 4. Persistent abdominal pain and vomiting 5. Scrotal pain and enlarged testes Treatment Self-Care at Home: The treatment of mumps is mainly to relieve the symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids and eat properly. The diet should be light. Pain relievers may be used for comfort. For most children, the swelling in their glands goes away in a week. Any child with mumps should not return to school or day care for 9 days after the start of parotid swelling. Medical Treatment: The treatment of mumps requires over-the-counter pain relievers for swelling and fever. The child should be kept well hydrated, so encourage the child to drink liquids. Prevention All children in the United States are routinely immunized against mumps with the combined vaccine called MMR (measles, mumps, rubella). Note: All suggestions are only fast aid for diseases. |
