Symptoms and Treatment of Mumps

　　Symptoms of mumps include swelling and pain in the salivary glands, fever and fatigue, redness and swelling of the salivary ducts, painful swallowing, and swelling of the submandibular glands. Treatment involves antipyretic and analgesic measures, antiviral interventions, fluid support, oral care, and monitoring for complications, all of which should be appropriately managed according to the patient's condition. If persistent high fever, severe headache, or abdominal pain occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

　　I. Symptoms of Mumps

　　1. Swelling and pain in the parotid glands: Diffuse swelling centered on the earlobe, usually starting on one side before spreading to the other. Pain worsens with touch or chewing. The skin over the swollen area appears taut, and pressing on it does not leave an indentation.

　　2. Fever and fatigue: Fever develops early in the illness, typically ranging from 38.5–40°C, accompanied by general weakness, lethargy, and loss of appetite. The fever may last 3–7 days.

　　3. Redness and swelling of the parotid duct: The opening of the parotid duct near the upper second molar inside the mouth becomes visibly red and swollen. Pressing on the gland does not produce pus discharge—this helps differentiate it from bacterial parotitis.

　　4. Painful swallowing: Swelling of the parotid gland compresses the throat, causing significant pain during swallowing. The pain intensifies when consuming acidic foods, as saliva secretion stimulates the swollen area.

　　5. Submandibular gland enlargement: Some patients also experience swelling of the submandibular glands, presenting as a bulge in the lower jaw area with tenderness upon palpation. In severe cases, this may affect speech and eating.

　　II. Treatment of Mumps

　　1. Antipyretic and analgesic therapy: Use physical cooling methods such as tepid water sponge baths for fever. For temperatures exceeding 38.5°C, acetaminophen can be administered. Apply cold compresses to the swollen area to relieve pain and discomfort. Aspirin is contraindicated.

　　2. Antiviral intervention: Administer antiviral medications within 48 hours of symptom onset to inhibit viral replication, shorten the duration of illness, and reduce transmission risk. Medications must be taken strictly as prescribed; self-adjusting dosage is not allowed.

　　3. Fluid support: When reduced intake due to painful swallowing occurs, use oral rehydration salts to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. Intravenous fluids may be required in severe cases to prevent dehydration and metabolic disturbances.

　　4. Oral care: Rinse the mouth with warm saline after meals to remove food debris, reduce bacterial growth, prevent secondary infection at the parotid duct opening, and maintain oral hygiene and moisture.

　　5. Monitoring for complications: Closely observe for symptoms such as testicular pain, abdominal pain, headache, or vomiting. Be vigilant for complications including orchitis, pancreatitis, and meningioencephalitis, and seek timely intervention if abnormalities are detected.

　　In daily care, provide soft, easily digestible foods and avoid acidic or hard foods. Ensure good indoor ventilation, boil and disinfect the patient’s clothing and utensils, and limit the patient’s外出 (outings) to prevent viral spread.