Mumps
(Epidemic Parotitis · Parotitis)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Mumps
The blood test to detect mumps is fairly complex and time-consuming. Although any family doctor can recognize most cases of mumps by physical examination, blood testing is done for public health reasons, especially since there are some other viruses that can cause symptoms similar to mumps. A spinal tap may be done for people who shows symptoms of meningitis or encephalitis.
Treating and Preventing Mumps
Mumps is caused by a virus, and we can't cure viral diseases. Fortunately, our immune system can deal with mumps, so the treatment for mumps is to wait for it to go away. Eating soft foods and avoiding acidic foods such as orange juice can help cope with the symptoms.
You can fight fever, headache, and muscle pains with acetaminophen* or ibuprofen. Never give acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) to children with a viral infection, as its use in these circumstances is linked to a dangerous condition called Reye's syndrome.
Orchitis (swelling of the testicles) requires bed rest for a day or two. Letting the testicles hang increases swelling, so they should be propped up. A tape bridge between the thighs may help, as may an ice pack wrapped in a towel.
You can easily prevent mumps with the highly safe and effective measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. It is usually given to children after 1 year of age, just when they're starting to lose the natural immunity that is transmitted from their mother prior to birth. Many programs give boosters a few months or years later, usually before a child begins school.
It's recommended that unvaccinated young adults get immunized. Older adults are almost certain to be immune. If you lived as a child with a sibling who had mumps, you can assume you're immune. The vast majority of adults are immune. You can also help prevent mumps by avoiding contact with people who have mumps, washing your hands regularly, and not sharing drinks.
If you are thinking of getting pregnant and have never had the disease or an MMR shot, you should be vaccinated before getting pregnant. Talk to a doctor about your options.
*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®). The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen). A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article lists medications by their common names. For information on a given medication, check our Drug Information database. For more information on brand names, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Mumps
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