Thyroid swelling Everybody has thyroid. The thyroid is in the lower part of the neck. It is a butterfly shaped gland, hence it has a lobe on one side and lobe on the other side. It puts out a hormone called T3 and T4. Those hormones are responsible for how we feel and how our cells work, how energetic we are, and how much moisture is present in our skin. That’s because of the thyroid gland. If a thyroid gland is swollen, it could be due to two reasons, number one, it could be due to an overactive gland. People feel nervous, excited or irritable, always speak fast, always doing something, and also lose weight even though they are eating well, only because of the over active gland. People may feel tired, sometimes sluggish and depressed, your skin gets dry, GI tract doesn’t work well, also in women, the menstrual cycle may become irregular, due to an underactive thyroid. Thyroid goiter is a condition where there is an abnormal enlargement of your thyroid gland. Goiter is one of the most common thyroid problems. When you have goiter the thyroid glands get enlarged and there will be visible swelling in the neck, Goiter has several causes such as infection, or iodine deficiency, or benign or malignant disease. Remember that a malignant disorder is extremely rare. Important note: Your doctor will study how much the pituitary gland is trying to control the thyroid. Your doctor will precisely know if it is underactive or overactive depending on the symptoms. About Thyroid swelling: A goiter is a lump or swelling at the front of the neck caused by a swollen thyroid. The thyroid is a small gland in your neck that makes hormones. Goiters are not usually serious but should be checked by your doctor. How does a thyroid lump feel?: Remember that most thyroid nodules don’t cause symptoms. For people who do have symptoms, they may have trouble swallowing or breathing or have a feeling of fullness, pain, or pressure in the throat or neck. Some people might notice a lump in their neck when they look in the mirror, but this is uncommon. Note: Although some thyroid nodules (especially smaller ones or those filled with fluid) can go away on their own, they tend to gradually grow, even when they’re benign. What are the symptoms? Most people with goiters have no signs or symptoms other than a swelling at the base of the neck. In many cases, the goiter is small enough that it’s only discovered during a routine medical exam or an imaging test for another condition. Remember other symptoms depend on whether thyroid function changes, how quickly the goiter grows and whether it obstructs breathing. Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include: ▪ Fatigue ▪ Increased sensitivity to cold ▪ Increased sleepiness ▪ Dry skin ▪ Constipation ▪ Muscle weakness ▪ Problems with memory or concentration Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: ▪ Weight loss ▪ Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) ▪ Increased sensitivity to heat ▪ Excess sweating ▪ Irritability and nervousness ▪ Muscle weakness ▪ Frequent bowel movements ▪ Changes in menstrual patterns ▪ Sleep difficulty ▪ High blood pressure ▪ Increased appetite Children with hyperthyroidism might also have the following: ▪ Rapid growth in height ▪ Changes in behavior ▪ Bone growth that outpaces expected growth for the child’s age ▪ Obstructive goiter The size or position of a goiter may obstruct the airway and voice box. Signs and symptoms may include: ▪ Difficulty swallowing ▪ Difficulty breathing with exertion ▪ Cough ▪ Hoarseness ▪ Snoring Treatment Goiter treatment depends on the size of the goiter, your signs and symptoms, and the underlying cause. If your goiter is small and your thyroid function is healthy, your health care provider may suggest a wait-and-see approach with regular checkups. Medications ● For increasing hormone production. An underactive thyroid is treated with a thyroid hormone replacement. The drug levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Thyquidity, others) replaces T-4 and results in the pituitary gland releasing less TSH. The drug liothyronine (Cytomel) may be prescribed as a T-3 replacement. These treatments may decrease the size of the goiter. ● For reducing hormone production. An overactive thyroid may be treated with an antithyroid drug that disrupts hormone production. The most commonly used drug, methimazole (Tapazole), may also reduce the size of the goiter. ● For blocking hormone activities. Your health care provider may prescribe a drug called a beta blocker for managing symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These drugs — including atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor) and others — can disrupt the excess thyroid hormones and lower symptoms. ● For managing pain. If inflammation of the thyroid results in pain, it’s usually treated with aspirin, naproxen sodium (Aleve), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or related pain relievers. Severe pain may be treated with a steroid. Surgery You may need surgery to remove all or part of your thyroid gland (total or partial thyroidectomy) may be used to treat goiter with the following complications: ● Difficulty breathing or swallowing ● Thyroid nodules that cause hyperthyroidism ● Thyroid cancer You may need to take thyroid hormone replacement, depending on the amount of thyroid removed. Radioactive iodine treatment Radioactive iodine is a treatment for an overactive thyroid gland. The dose of radioactive iodine is taken orally. The thyroid takes up the radioactive iodine, which destroys cells in the thyroid. The treatment lowers or eliminates hormone production and may decrease the size of the goiter. As with surgery, you may need to take thyroid hormone replacement to maintain the appropriate levels of hormones. When do I see my doctor and what are the red flags? Visit your doctor immediately if you notice these signs and symptoms – persistent fatigue, sleepiness or even sleep difficulty, irritability and nervousness, problems with memory or concentration, irregular menstrual cycle (in women), difficulty swallowing or breathing, high blood pressure, excess sweating, sensitivity to heat, changes in behavior, changes in height, dry skin, or frequent bowel movements,

Back of my neck is swollen – FAQs So, why is the back of my neck swollen? Your posterior cervical lymph nodes are located near the back of your neck. Several things can cause a swollen posterior cervical lymph node, but the most common cause is a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. Common causes of swollen lymph nodes include: strep throat, ear infections, abscessed teeth, and skin wounds or infections. A few additional symptoms you may experience include: ▪ Tenderness & pain in the lymph node ▪ Runny nose, sore throat, and other symptoms of an upper respiratory infection ▪ Fever ▪ Chills ▪ Night sweats ▪ Multiple swollen lymph nodes throughout your body Health tips: 1. You can try ice packs, baking soda baths, and fever-reducing medication 2. You can apply a warm, wet compress, such as a washcloth dipped in hot water, and hold it on the affected area. 3. Antibiotic medications prescribed by your ENT doctor can help the lumps heal, if your skin lump is caused by an infection or abscess. Red flag signs: 1. Swelling persisting for more than a wee 2. Increase un size of swelling 3. Associated with pain 4. Associated with fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss Treatment An ENT doctor will examine the swelling, look for similar swelling in other parts of the body, and advise an endoscopy to rule out infection. You may also be advised to take a CT scan to rule out the possibility of tumor growth. The treatment will be tailored according to the cause of swelling, and surgical removal of swelling is mandatory in cases of head and neck tumors. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T. health – ENTry for better senses” Health tips: Previous Blog

Ways to self assess mouth cancer Whether you are looking for answers for yourself or someone you love, we are here to give you the best information available. Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, forms in the oral cavity, which includes all parts of your mouth that you can see. If you open your mouth wide and look in the mirror, you will see your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, roof, and floor of the mouth. Oral cancer forms when the cells on the lips or in the mouth mutate. Most often, they begin in the flat thin cells that line your lips and the inside of your mouth. Small changes to the DNA of these cells make the cells grow abnormally. Then these mutated cells accumulate, forming a tumor that grows in the mouth and often spreads to the lymph nodes in the neck. Important note:Oral cancer is curable if detected at an early stage. The detection of small, early-stage oral cancer has been shown to lead to significantly reduced deaths and suffering Who gets oral cancer? The average age of those diagnosed with oral cancer is around 63. Just over 20 percent of cases occur in patients younger than 55. However, it can affect anyone. There are several known risk factors that could increase your risk of developing oral cancer. If you use any kind of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and others, you are at greater risk. Heavy alcohol use and those with HPV are at increased risk of getting oral or mouth cancer. What are the ways to self assess oral or mouth cancer? You can perform an oral cancer risk assessment by following the steps given below: ▪ Face – Examine the symmetry of the face in a mirror, and check for irregularities and new imbalance between the two sides. ▪ Lips – Pull up upper and lower lips to check the texture and color. ▪ Gums – Raise upper and lower lips to check color and conditions of the gums. ▪ Cheeks – Draw back the side of the mouth to check inside the cheeks. ▪ Tongue and floor of mouth – Move the tongue, check as far back as can be seen in the mirror, and feel the area. ▪ Neck – Feel for anything unusual on the sides of the neck. ▪ Trachea – Hold the thyroid cartilage (the Adam’s apple). It should go up and down when you swallow. How early do I see my doctor, and what are the red flags? Oral cancer can present itself in many different ways. This can include – a lip or mouth sore that doesn’t heal, a white or reddish patch on the inside of your mouth, loose teeth, a growth or lump inside of your mouth, mouth pain, ear pain, and difficulty or pain while swallowing, opening your mouth, or chewing. If you are experiencing any of these issues and they persist for more than 2 weeks, visit your doctor. Your doctor will be able to rule out the most common causes first, like an infection. Prevention of Oral Cancer: ✔ Quit smoking or the consumption of any form of tobacco ✔ Quit betel quid/areca/gutkha/chewing tobacco consumption ✔ Also discourage children and young adults from experimenting with harmful lifestyle habits ✔ Eat plenty of fresh fruits and green-yellow vegetables daily. Note: Remember, improving awareness among the general public, including primary care practitioners, dispensing screening or early diagnostic facilities for people, especially for tobacco and alcohol users, and providing adequate treatment for those diagnosed with cancer are critical. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous Blog

Voice Box Cancer Larynx helps us breathe, speak, and swallow. Cancer that forms in any part of the larynx (voice box) is called laryngeal cancer. This cancer happens when cells grow uncontrollably. As the cells multiply, they invade and damage the body. The vocal cords are controlled by the laryngeal muscles and nerves, which can be damaged by cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx. Cancer of the larynx may cause a hoarse voice because it affects how the vocal cords move and may cause difficulty swallowing and breathing since it blocks the passage of food and air. Because the vocal cords don’t close properly, we call this aspiration when food or water gets down to the lungs. Finally, they may allow food and air into the windpipe, causing you to cough or develop chest infections. Important note: If laryngopharyngeal or hypopharyngeal cancers spread to the lymph nodes, there might be a lump in the neck. Lymph nodes are bean shaped glands in the neck (there are around 900 of them) that are part of the immune system’s defense against infection. What are the risk factors for laryngeal cancer? Smoking or using other tobacco products greatly increases your risk of developing laryngeal cancer. Drinking alcohol, especially a lot of it, also raises your risk. Also, using alcohol and tobacco together increases the risk even more. A few other risk factors for laryngeal cancer include: ▪ Age: Laryngeal cancer happens more in people age 55 and older. ▪ Gender: Men are more likely to develop this cancer, possibly because smoking and heavy alcohol consumption happen more among men. ▪ History of head and neck cancer: About one in four (25%) people who have had head and neck cancer will get it again. ▪ Job: People who have exposure to certain substances at work are at higher risk. These substances include sulfuric acid mist, wood dust, nickel, asbestos or manufacturing mustard gas. People who work with machines are also at higher risk. What are the symptoms of laryngeal cancer? ● Sore throat or cough that doesn’t go away. ● Voice change, such as hoarseness, that doesn’t improve after two weeks. ● Pain or other difficulties when you swallow. ● Lump in the neck or throat. ● Dysphonia, trouble making voice sounds. ● Ear pain. If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately: ▪ Trouble breathing (dyspnea). ▪ Stridor, difficulty in breathing that’s noisy and high-pitched. ▪ Globus sensation, feeling that something’s in your throat. ▪ Coughing up blood (hemoptysis). Treatment Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. Also, they will do a physical exam, examining your throat and neck. After the initial exam, you will most likely need other tests to confirm a diagnosis. Laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancers can be treated by surgery or radiation therapy. Many patients receive a combination of treatments, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Depending on the size, location, and spread of the cancer, your doctor will suggest treatments suitable for you. When do I see my doctor, and what are the red flags? Visit your doctor immediately if you notice these signs and symptoms – persistent sore throat or cough, lump in the neck or throat, voice change, pain or difficulty swallowing, trouble making voice sounds, ear pain, trouble breathing, high-pitched noisy breathing, or coughing up blood. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T. health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous Blog

Throat cancer Throat cancer refers to cancer that develops in your throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx). Let us understand the anatomy of the pharynx (throat) – The pharynx, which is a hollow tube that starts behind the nose, goes down the neck, and ends at the top of the trachea and esophagus. The three parts of the pharynx are the nasopharynx, the oropharynx, and the hypopharynx. The voice box, which sits just below your throat and is made of cartilage and contains the vocal cords that vibrate to make sound when you talk is also susceptible to cancer. What are the types of throat cancers? Pharyngeal cancers ● Nasopharyngeal cancer: This type affects the top part of the pharynx, in the area behind the nose. ● Oropharyngeal cancer: This type affects the back of the mouth and middle part of the pharynx. This can include the tonsils, base of the tongue, and soft palate. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes that this is the most common type of pharyngeal cancer. ● Hypopharyngeal cancer: This type affects the lower part of the pharynx. Laryngeal cancers ● supraglottis, the area of the larynx above the vocal cords that includes the epiglottis ● glottis, the middle area of the larynx that contains the vocal cords ● subglottis, the lowest area of the larynx, extending from the vocal cords to the windpipe The main causes of Pharyngeal and laryngeal tumors are ● Tobacco use, which includes both smoking and chewing tobacco. ● Excessive alcohol consumption. ● Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus infections ● Food habit that is deficient in fruits and vegetables. ● Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) ● Family history of head and neck cancer Tobacco has nicotine, which acts as a carcinogen by initiating DNA damage to the cells. Alcohol consumption and tobacco chewing together can multiply the risk for pahryngeal and laryngeal tumors. What are the signs and symptoms of throat cancer? ▪ Changes in your voice, such as hoarseness or not speaking clearly ▪ Pain or difficulty when swallowing ▪ Weight loss ▪ Ear pain ▪ Lump in the neck or throat ▪ Persistent sore throat or cough Important note: There are several different types of throat cancer and many places within the throat where cancer can develop. The symptoms and progression will depend on the type and location of the cancer. A person with cancer in the lower part of the throat, or hypopharynx, may not have symptoms in the early stages. This can make it harder to spot. Other conditions can cause these symptoms. A person should seek medical attention if their symptoms worsen or persist so that a serious condition can be ruled out. What are the treatment options? Getting an early diagnosis of throat cancer greatly increases the chance of effective treatment. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and carry out a physical examination. They may use a laryngoscope, which is a tube with a camera on it, to evaluate the inside of the throat. Imaging tests, such as an endoscopy of the upper airway or a CT or MRI scan, can help the doctor confirm a diagnosis and see how far the cancer has spread. A doctor may recommend a biopsy. This involves taking a sample of throat tissue or cells to test for cancer in a lab. A biopsy will also show what kind of cancer is present. These tests will help the doctor determine the type of cancer and the best way to treat it. After your doctor knows the stage and grade of the cancer, they will talk to you about the treatment options. The treatment of pharyngeal and laryngeal tumors varies. In general, early stages of laryngeal tumors can be managed with single modality treatment ( either surgery or radiotherapy ). The later stages of the tumor may need Combine approach ( Surgical removal along with post operative Chemoraditherpy ) Similarly, for pharyngeal tumors, treatment varies depending on the site of origin. In general, early stages require surgical removal and clearance of disease, while later stages may require combined modalities of treatment. Creating awareness and ensuring early detection can reduce the morbidity and mortality of the disease. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T. health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous Blog

Nose cancer A quick guide to nose cancer Nose cancer is a type of head and neck cancer. Nasal and paranasal tumors can be noncancerous (benign) or they can be cancerous (malignant). Several types of nasal and paranasal tumors exist. Depending on where the cancer starts, the disease can have many different names. Nasal and paranasal tumors are abnormal growths that begin in and around the passageway within your nose. Paranasal tumors begin in air-filled chambers around the nose called the paranasal sinuses. If nose cancer starts in the opening behind the nose, it’s nasal cavity cancer. The nasal cavity is right behind the nose and runs along the roof of the mouth, eventually joining the upper part of the throat. Important note: Tumors in the sinonasal region are rare, 3-5% of head and neck cancer ( as stated by American cancer society). The main age group to be affected by nasal and paranasal tumors is 55 years and older. What are the Causes for Nasal and Sinus Tumors? Histologically, there are several forms of sinonasal cancer, the most common of which are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and adenocystic carcinoma. Genes become disturbed when a cell’s DNA becomes damaged. Some risk factors that can lead to DNA changes and possibly cause nose cancer include: ▪ Exposure to industrial fumes and leather tanning( Adenocarcinoma) ▪ workplace exposures to wood dust( Adenocarcinoma) ▪ Workers in Nickel industry ( Squamous cell carcinoma) ▪ Human papilloma Virus ( HPV- Scheneiderian papilloma) Previous Blog What are the signs and symptoms? The signs and symptoms of nose cancer depend on the type of cancer a person has. Symptoms may include: ▪ Nasal congestion that doesnot resolve with drops and blockage of one side of the nose ▪ Unprovoked nasal bleeds ▪ mucus dripping into the throat and pus in the nose ▪ Reduced smell sensation ▪ Widening of framework of nosede: ▪ losing teeth or numbness of teeth ▪ watering of eyes and pain around the eyes ▪ double vision ▪ pain or pressure in one ear and hearing loss ▪ trouble opening the mouth ▪ Swollen lymph nodes of neck It is important to note that the above mentioned signs and symptoms are nonspecific. This may also indicate other medical conditions, such as infections or nasal polyps. How to prevent nose cancer? In order to reduce your risk of nasal and paranasal tumors, you can:b> ● Avoidance of known carcinogens and Protect yourself at work – Follow your workplace safety rules for protecting yourself from harmful fumes and irritants in the air, such as wearing a face mask. ● Quit smoking When do I see my doctor, and what are the red flags? Consult your ENT doctor if you have a decreased or lost sense of smell, a blocked or congested nose that does not clear, pressure or pain behind the nose around the upper teeth, nosebleeds (especially if only on one side), a lump or sore inside the nose or mouth or on the face, frequent headaches or pain in the sinus areas, numbness or tingling in the face, swelling or eye trouble, such as double vision, complete or partial loss of sight, or watery eyes.If any of these symptoms last for more than a few weeks, talk to your doctor as early as possible. What is the treatment for sinonasal cancers? Treatment depends upon the extend of disease , spread of tumor and histological type of the tumor An ENT doctor may examine the nose and advise a CT and MRI of the head and neck region to assess the extent of tumor growth. Except for tumors at stage 4, the main modality of treatment is surgical removal of the tumor. Further treatment depends on the biopsy results and may require chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. If the disease has spread to the eye or to the jaw bones, surgical clearance of those areas will be advised by the doctor Note: Sinonasal malignancies are rare. As a result, it is frequently diagnosed too late. Creating awareness and ensuring early detection can reduce the morbidity and mortality of the disease. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T. health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous Blog

Head and neck-related problems The head is the uppermost section of the body, connected to the trunk via the neck. It serves as the control and communication hub as well as the body’s “loading dock.” The neck, like the head, contains various critical organs and structures, including the larynx, thyroid, parathyroid glands, trachea, and esophagus. What is a Migraine? Headache is one of the most common complaints among patients. It can be due to several causes, the most important being Migraine A migraine is a type of neurological headache that can cause severe pain. Neck pain may be the most common migraine symptom, beginning at the same time as the headache. In order to be diagnosed with migraine disease, patients must have had at least 5 headache attacks that lasted 4–72 hours. It can be associated with auditory or visual auras (hallucinations) Migraine is usually triggered by stress, lack of sleep, lack of food, etc. Sometimes, neck pain can also mimic migraines. Headaches can also be a symptom of neck injuries, cervical spondylosis, and myalgia (caused by an uncomfortable sleeping position). What is Meningitis? Meninges are membranes that cover the brain. Meningitis happens when an infection attacks the meninges. It could be a bacterial, viral, or fungal cause. Patients can have a bad headache and a stiff neck that makes it difficult to move the head. Meningitis can cause other symptoms like fever, confusion, loss of consciousness, projectile vomiting, dizziness, and sensitivity to light. How early do I see my doctor, and what are the red flags? ▪ Headache associated with fever and vomiting ▪ History of tumors ▪ Sudden loss of consciousness/ decreased sensation in any part of the body ▪ Sudden/ abrupt onset ▪ New onset headache in old age ▪ Change in pattern of headache/ positional headache; ▪ precipitated by sneezing, coughing, or exercise; ▪ painful eye ▪ Headache after accidents ▪ Headache associated with a stiff neck You must seek emergency medical treatment if you experience any of the above symptoms. What is vertigo? Vertigo is the sensation of spinning one’s surroundings or spinning oneself without an external source. Vertigo can be an inner ear disorder but can also be due to cervical spondylosis. It can be triggered by a fall, head injury, or brain tumor; sometimes there are unknown causes too. Vertigo needs a detailed evaluation by an ENT doctor and treatment depends upon the cause of vertigo Thyroid and Parathyroid swellings Thyroid and parathyroid swellings present as a swelling in the front of the neck. It is easily noticed by the patients as swelling, but sometimes it can also present with difficulty swallowing, a change in voice, or even breathing difficulty. A thyroid swelling can vary from a simple goiter to thyroid cancer. Hence the treatment for the same is mandatory An ENT doctor who examines the swelling may advise an ultrasound and FNAC (needle biopsy) of the swelling. Depending on the results, a tailored treatment plan will be suggested for you. Similarly, parathyroid swelling can also have many differential diagnoses. A thorough examination and tailored treatment are needed for the same. Salivary gland disorders Salivary gland disorders are not uncommon in our country. There are two pairs of the parotid, one submandibular, and small minor salivary glands in us. They can be infected with a viral or bacterial infection and present as pain and swelling of the cheeks or floor of the mouth. Salivary gland disorders can be long-standing and are known as chronic sialadenitis. This in turn can lead to the destruction of a part of the gland or the whole gland itself Salivary gland tumors ( mostly parotid gland ) are common. They can be painless, slow-growing tumors, or rapid-onset painful tumors with facial weakness. In order to assess and treat salivary gland swelling, an ENT doctor may use an MRI, FNAC (needle biopsy), or ultrasound. Thyroid and parathyroid swellings present as a swelling in the front of the neck. It is easily noticed by the patients as swelling, but sometimes it can also present with difficulty swallowing, a change in voice, or even breathing difficulty. A thyroid swelling can vary from a simple goiter to thyroid cancer. Hence the treatment for the same is mandatory An ENT doctor who examines the swelling may advise an ultrasound and FNAC (needle biopsy) of the swelling. Depending on the results, a tailored treatment plan will be suggested for you. Similarly, parathyroid swelling can also have many differential diagnoses. A thorough examination and tailored treatment are needed for the same. Head and neck cancers: Head and neck cancers are cancers that occur in the head and neck region. Head and neck cancers include cancers of the mouth, such as those of the nose, lip, tongue, pharynx or throat, and the larynx or voice box. Causes and treatment of head and neck cancers: Nasal cancers are mostly seen in old age and are common in people working in the wood industry. Oral and throat cancers are caused by tobacco, pan chewing, beetle chewing, alcohol, or a combination of all these. Head and neck cancers usually present with difficulty swallowing, voice changes, nasal bleeding, and headaches. They are also accompanied by swelling in the neck (lymph nodes ), and difficulty moving the jaws. An individualized approach is adopted in diagnosing and treating head and neck cancer. This involves tailoring each treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs. Our head and neck cancer program includes medical oncologists, ENT doctors, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers, and patients here benefit from their knowledge. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous BlogNext Blog

Salivary Gland Issues We have a number of salivary glands, and they are all situated around the mouth. They produce saliva or spit, which can cause problems when they become inflamed, infected, or blocked. There are three main salivary glands, which come as a pair with one of each on each side of the face: 1. The parotid glands – situated just in front of your ear. 2. The submandibular glands – situated under your jaw line. 3. The sublingual glands – situated under your tongue. Additionally, your mouth is covered in a number of much smaller salivary glands. Tubes or ducts carry the saliva from the gland into your mouth. The role of saliva in your mouth is to: ● Keep it lubricated. ● Help with speech. ● Help with speech. ● Help with chewing and the start of the process of digesting your food. ● Protect your teeth. There is a wide range of possible causes for disorders of the salivary glands. The most common infection that affects the salivary glands is mumps. This is an infection with a virus, most often affecting the parotid glands, although it can affect other salivary glands. It usually affects both parotid glands, so the swelling is on both sides of your face; however, in some cases, it is just one-sided.Other viruses can affect the salivary glands too. Some of them are coxsackievirus, ,Herpes viruses,Influenza and parainfluenza viruses,Parvovirus B19, and HIV. Infections with bacteria can occur less commonly in the salivary glands. This occurs more frequently in people who are otherwise ill and have other problems and is caused by an infection spreading from the mouth. Tuberculosis rarely affects the salivary glands. What are the possible symptoms suggesting a salivary gland infection? ▪ Swelling of one or more glands. This would mean a swelling of part of your face. There may be redness (inflammation) of the skin over the swollen part. ▪ Swelling of one or more glands. This would mean a swelling of part of your face. There may be redness (inflammation) of the skin over the swollen part. ▪ Pain in the area of the salivary glands ▪ A dry mouth and throat. ▪ A bad taste in the mouth. ▪ A raised temperature or fever Malfunctioning salivary glands produce less saliva, which causes dry mouth and tooth decay. Infected or blocked salivary glands can cause pain. What are salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis)? Salivary gland stones are not uncommon,they are mainly due to stagnation of saliva in the ducts. Strictures of the duct, inflammation of the gland, and sometimes immunological conditions can lead to sialolithiasis. you may feel pain and swelling of the salivary gland region while taking food(specially sour foods). To identify the location of stones inside the duct, your doctor may suggest a CT scan . Sialendoscopy is a newer modality of investigation and minimally invasive treatment for stone removal .. Salivary gland malignancy Among the salivary glands Parotid glands are more likely to develop cancer, and it’s mostly benign Pleomorphic adenoma. It presents as a painless swelling of the face that is mostly unilateral. In cases of malignant tumors affecting the facial nerve, facial deformities can also be seen. Tumors may also develop in the submandibular, sublingual, or other minor salivary glands. In order to plan the removal of the tumor, your ENT doctor might advise performing an MRI and taking a biopsy of the swelling. Treatment: Treatment will entirely depend on the cause and individual conditions. Mumps infection gets better on its own after a week or so with no treatment. Avoid going to school, college, or working for five days after symptoms start. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. By consuming enough liquid and sucking on lemon drops or chewing gum, you can promote salivation. Warm compresses may be helpful. Many of the stones pass through the duct eventually on their own without needing any treatment at all. Others may need help from a specialist surgeon. ▪ A dry mouth and throat. ▪ A bad taste in the mouth. ▪ A raised temperature or fever Malfunctioning salivary glands produce less saliva, which causes dry mouth and tooth decay. Infected or blocked salivary glands can cause pain. – Dr. Prashanth R Reddy “E.N.T. health – ENTry for better senses”. Previous Blog