Check the Causes of Salivary Gland Inflammation: Dont Overlook Cheek Pain

Have you ever suddenly felt tight pain near your cheek, under your chin, or at your ear, especially a sharp pain when chewing and swallowing delicious food? These symptoms might not be just ordinary toothache but could signal"salivary gland inflammation."A common condition often overlooked by many. Today, Thairath Online Lifestyle takes you to find out what causes salivary gland inflammation and how to recognize it early before it worsens!

Pain beside the cheek, aching under the chin!"Salivary gland inflammation"What causes it and how to treat it effectively

The salivary glands in our body produce saliva to aid digestion, keep the mouth moist, and fight pathogens. However, when the glands become blocked or infected, acute or chronic inflammation may occur.

What causes salivary gland inflammation? Summary of common main causes

Checklist of warning signs... When to see a doctor immediately

1. Swelling, redness, and tight pain near the ear, cheek, or under the chin.
2. Pain worsening while eating, especially sour foods that stimulate saliva production.
3. Difficulty opening the mouth, feeling tightness when chewing.
4. Abnormal taste in the mouth: dry mouth, bitter taste, or feeling pus draining into the mouth.
5. High fever and chills indicating a worsening infection.

Is salivary gland inflammation dangerous? How is it treated and can it be fully cured?

How dangerous is it... What risks come if left untreated?

Generally, salivary gland inflammation is not life-threatening if treated early. But if neglected until chronic, severe complications may arise, such as abscess formation around the gland, which can spread to deep neck tissues compressing the airway, or in severe cases, bacteria can enter the bloodstream.

Medical treatment approaches

Treatment depends on the identified cause; doctors will assess and follow these approaches:

• Medication: If caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed along with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Viral infections are managed symptomatically with pain relief and rest.
• Procedures to remove stones: For stone obstruction, sialendoscopy—a minimally invasive small camera procedure—can remove stones without major surgery, reducing pain and speeding recovery. Large stones may require minor surgery.
• Salivary gland surgery: Considered a last resort for patients with chronic recurrent inflammation causing severe gland damage or large abscesses not treatable by drainage.

Can it be fully cured or recur?

The answer is"It can be cured, but recurrence is possible."This depends on the cause and behavior.

• High chance of full recovery: If acute inflammation is from a common infection, with full antibiotic treatment and good oral hygiene, the body can return to normal 100%.
• Chance of recurrence: If caused by salivary stones not fully removed, chronic gland dysfunction, regular low water intake, or underlying immune-related diseases like Sjögren's syndrome causing chronic dry mouth, these groups have higher risk of recurrence.

Self-care and initial treatment tips

• Drink enough water: At least 8–10 glasses daily to help saliva flow better.
• Apply warm compresses: Use a warm damp cloth on swollen or painful areas 2–3 times daily to reduce tightness.
• Maintain oral hygiene: Brush teeth and floss regularly to reduce bacterial load.
• Stimulate saliva flow: Such as sucking sour candies or chewing gum (only if there is no severe purulent inflammation).
• See a doctor for medication: If bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed; if stones are detected, specialized treatment may be necessary.

Salivary gland inflammation can result from many factors, from simple behaviors like low water intake to infections and stone blockages. If you start to experience pain and swelling near the ear or under the chin with fever, do not self-medicate. It is recommended to promptly consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health; Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Otorhinolaryngology, Ramathibodi Hospital