Good Health Lesson 28; Mumps

GOOD  HEALTH LESSON 28
MUMPS

Mumps is a disease caused by a virus. A virus is one of the smallest known germs. Mumps is a disease that spreads from one person to another, and attacks the salivary glands in the mouth. The salivary glands produce saliva; which we often call spit. This saliva is a liquid that keeps the mouth smooth and wet so that its parts work well. Saliva also helps to soften food so it can be easily swallowed; and helps in digesting it. Mumps can also affect other glands in the body.

Symptoms
Generally it takes a number of days from the time of infection until the first symptoms of mumps appear. After this incubation period, most people develop fever, headache and pain near the angle of the jaw. Eventually the salivary gland swells or grow bigger; this gland is in the mouth near the ear. The swelling tends to reach from the cheek downwards and backwards under the ear, and over the angle of the jaw. This area can be so swollen that the jaw's angle can no longer be seen. One or both sides of the face may be affected. The swelling can make it difficult for the person to open their jaw. Eating of food may cause discomfort.

Mumps in boys past puberty
Mumps in boys past the age of puberty may cause another difficulty. An inflammation of the testes (the gland that makes the male seed called sperm) can occur. This inflammation may lead to future difficulties when wanting to father children.

Inflammation
Sometimes mumps causes inflammation of the brain, but this is reportedly mild.

What to do
Consult your Doctor. Fortunately, in most cases mumps is not a serious  illness. Get plenty of rest, until the swelling on the face has subsided. GIve soft food, with sufficient fluids to drink. As soon as the pain eases, start a healthy diet. Keep the affected person away from others, in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Cold damp cloths may be placed on swollen parts to reduce swelling and pain.

Prevention
The vaccination MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is available for prevention of the diseases. The vaccination is recommended for children. Speak to your GP about this.

Mumps
http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/miscellaneous_viral_infections_in_infants_and_children/mumps.html

Mumps Complications 
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mumps/pages/complications.aspx

Mumps Home Remedies 
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mumps/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20019914

Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine 
http://www.webmd.com/children/vaccines/measles-mumps-and-rubella-mmr-vaccine 

With thanks to Merckmanuals/ Nhs.uk/ Mayoclinic.org/ Webmd 

*Disclaimer; Please note that the information on this Health Post is not meant to replace your Doctor or Health Professional care