Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands, which are located near your ears. Though it is preventable with the MMR vaccine, mumps still poses a health risk to people who are not vaccinated or who have not received all required doses of the vaccine.

Mumps, once a common childhood illness, has become much less frequent due to the widespread use of vaccines. However, it still poses a health risk to unvaccinated individuals, particularly those who are not up to date on their immunizations or those who missed the recommended vaccine doses. Mumps is caused by a viral infection that primarily targets the salivary glands, leading to painful swelling and a host of other symptoms that can affect both children and adults.

What Is Mumps?

Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or even talking. The virus typically targets the salivary glands, leading to painful swelling. Although mumps mainly affects children, it can also affect adults, sometimes leading to more severe complications.

Common Symptoms of Mumps

The symptoms of mumps may vary in intensity and duration from one person to another. In many cases, symptoms can be mild and go unnoticed, but for others, they can be severe and lead to complications.

Swollen Salivary Glands (Parotitis)

The most well known symptom of mumps is the swelling of the parotid glands, located on either side of the face, just below the ears. This swelling is often painful and can make it difficult to swallow, chew, or even speak comfortably. The swelling usually starts on one side and can spread to the other side within a day or two.

Fever :- A mild to moderate fever is common with mumps. The fever can start before the swelling of the glands and usually peaks within a couple of days. It is typically in the range of 101°F (38.3°C) to 103°F (39.4°C), though higher temperatures can occasionally occur.
Headache :- Headaches are another common symptom of mumps. They can vary from mild to severe and are often accompanied by general body aches. The discomfort can be worsened by the fever.
Fatigue and Malaise :- People with mumps often feel generally unwell or fatigued, even before the swelling of the glands becomes noticeable. This feeling of malaise can last for several days and might make it difficult to carry out regular activities.
Loss of Appetite :- Along with fever and fatigue, many individuals experience a loss of appetite. This can be particularly concerning in children who are affected by the virus, as it may lead to dehydration and weight loss.
Pain While Chewing or Swallowing :- As the parotid glands become inflamed, individuals may experience pain when chewing or swallowing. This discomfort can be aggravated by eating acidic foods, as they may stimulate the salivary glands, causing more pain.
Dry Mouth :- Due to the swelling of the salivary glands, some individuals with mumps may experience a dry mouth. This happens because the glands may not be able to produce saliva normally, which can cause difficulty in swallowing and talking.

Less Common Symptoms of Mumps

While the symptoms listed above are the most common signs of mumps, the virus can sometimes lead to more serious complications. In some cases, the following symptoms may occur :-

Orchitis (Swelling of the Testicles) :- In post pubertal males, the mumps virus can affect the testicles, leading to a condition called orchitis. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and tenderness in one or both testicles. While orchitis is not usually life-threatening, it can cause long term complications, including infertility in rare cases.
Oophoritis (Swelling of the Ovaries) :- Females, though less commonly affected by mumps complications, can experience oophoritis, an inflammation of the ovaries. This condition can cause pelvic pain and tenderness and may occasionally affect fertility, though the risk is lower compared to males with orchitis.
Meningitis (Inflammation of the Meninges) :- Mumps can sometimes lead to viral meningitis, a serious condition that involves inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of meningitis include severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, and nausea. Though viral meningitis is typically less severe than bacterial meningitis, it still requires medical attention.
Encephalitis (Swelling of the Brain) :- In rare cases, mumps can lead to encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. This condition is potentially life threatening and can cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Though rare, encephalitis requires immediate medical intervention.

When Do Mumps Symptoms Appear?

The incubation period for mumps is usually between 12 and 25 days after exposure to the virus, with symptoms typically appearing 16 to 18 days after infection. It’s important to note that an infected person can spread the virus to others several days before symptoms develop and for several days after symptoms appear. This makes mumps particularly contagious, especially in settings like schools or daycare centers.

How Is Mumps Diagnosed?

If you or your child develops symptoms of mumps, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider. The diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination and the characteristic symptoms of swelling of the salivary glands. In some cases, laboratory tests, such as a blood test or a throat culture, may be done to confirm the presence of the mumps virus.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Most cases of mumps resolve on their own without serious complications, but it’s essential to monitor the symptoms carefully. Seek medical attention if :-

The swelling of the salivary glands is severe or worsens over time.
There is significant pain in the testicles or pelvic area.
You or your child experience severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures.
Dehydration becomes a concern due to a lack of appetite or difficulty swallowing.

Preventing Mumps

The best way to prevent mumps is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is a safe and effective way to protect against mumps. Most children receive the MMR vaccine in two doses, typically one at 12-15 months of age and another at 4-6 years of age. In some cases, adults who have not been vaccinated or who are at higher risk may also need the MMR vaccine.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of mumps early on is key to managing the infection and preventing complications. Though the majority of mumps cases are mild and self limiting, it is still important to seek medical advice.