The parotid glands are the largest of the salivary glands, located on either side of your face, just in front of your ears. They play an essential role in producing saliva, which helps in digestion, oral hygiene, and overall comfort. When something goes wrong with these glands—whether due to infection, stones, cysts, or tumors—it can lead to discomfort and serious complications.
In this blog, let’s explore everything you need to know about parotid gland disorders, their causes, symptoms, and the best treatment options available
Published By microcareenthospitals.com / Updated: May 12, 2025
The parotid glands are responsible for secreting saliva into your mouth through ducts near the upper teeth. These glands help:
Begin the digestion of food
Keep your mouth moist
Protect teeth from decay
Any obstruction, inflammation, or abnormal growth in these glands can lead to noticeable swelling or discomfort in the jaw or cheek area.
This is often caused by viral infections like mumps or bacterial infections, especially in people with poor oral hygiene or dehydration. It leads to:
Painful swelling near the jaw
Fever and chills
Pus from the salivary duct
Dry mouth
Salivary stones can block the parotid ducts, preventing saliva from flowing normally. Symptoms include:
Pain and swelling, especially during eating
Hard lump in the cheek or jaw area
Possible infection if left untreated
Not all tumors are cancerous, but both benign (like pleomorphic adenoma) and malignant growths may occur. Signs include:
A painless lump or swelling in front of the ear
Facial muscle weakness (in severe cases)
Persistent discomfort or asymmetry
If you notice any persistent or growing lump, it’s essential to consult an ENT specialist in Hyderabad or Kukatpally for evaluation.
Fluid-filled cysts or bacterial abscesses can develop within the parotid gland. These can be painful and may require draining or surgical intervention.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to visit a trusted ENT hospital in Hyderabad or Kukatpally:
Persistent swelling or pain in the cheek/jaw area
Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
Dry mouth or foul-tasting discharge
Lump that continues to grow
An ENT specialist may use the following to diagnose parotid issues:
Physical examination
Ultrasound or MRI of the gland
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy
CT scan in complex cases
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
Antibiotics for bacterial parotitis
Hydration and massage for mild stones
Sialendoscopy to remove salivary stones
Surgical excision for tumors or large cysts
Parotidectomy (removal of part or all of the gland) in complex or cancerous cases
Always choose a skilled and experienced ENT surgeon in Hyderabad to ensure safe and effective outcomes.
If you’re in Kukatpally, Jubilee Hills, or nearby areas, consider visiting a reputed ENT hospital like MicroCare ENT Super Speciality Hospital. The center offers advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and expert care for all parotid and salivary gland disorders.
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Road No.36, Jubilee Hills
Beside Peddamma Temple Kaman,
Hyderabad-500033, Telangana, India
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