Mumps is an infectious disease that is caused by a virus that affects the salivary glands that are found close to the ears. They are characterised by painful swelling in these glands and if not well managed, Mumps can lead to several complications. It is, therefore, necessary to have information on mumps, its signs, and measures of controlling and curing the illness.
What are Mumps?
Mumps is a communicable disease that is caused by the mumps virus which is a paramyxovirus and is spread through droplets from the respiratory system through talking, sneezing or coughing. It can also be passed on through direct contact with the saliva of an infected person or through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus. This was a common childhood disease before the mumps vaccine was developed, and the vaccine played a role in reducing the occurrence of the disease.
Symptoms of Mumps
Mumps symptoms develop 2-3 weeks after the person has been infected with the virus that causes the disease. The most common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Swollen Salivary Glands
- Pain while chewing or swallowing
Apart from these symptoms, the disease may have complications in some cases, especially in adults. Complications include:
- Orchitis: In adult males, it is characterised by the enlargement of the testes. Also, it leads to pain.
- Oophoritis: A disease that is common among women and causes inflammation of the ovaries and abdominal pain.
- Mastitis: It is a disease that is associated with the breast tissue and results in inflammation.
- Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis is a disease that results in inflammation of the pancreas and leads to pain in the abdomen and vomiting.
- Meningitis: An inflammation of the meninges, which are the membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord.
- Hearing Loss: In some cases, hearing loss is permanent, although it is a very rare occurrence.
Diagnosing Mumps
Mumps disease is clinically diagnosed through symptoms, such as swollen salivary glands. The healthcare provider may also order some tests, such as blood tests and viral culture swab tests to aid in the diagnosis of the condition.
Mumps Treatment
Mumps disease has no specific cure, but antiviral treatment can be given to the patient to help them recover from the disease. Its treatment is mostly focused on the alleviation of the symptoms and the support of the immune system of the patient. Here are some common approaches:
- Rest: It is also important to rest well in order to facilitate the healing process. Individuals should not go to work or school to prevent the spread of the virus and allow their bodies to rest.
- Hydration: Sipping of fluids is advised, especially if the patient has a fever or cannot eat because of the swelling of the salivary glands. Only clear liquids, water, and oral rehydration solutions should be consumed.
- Pain Relief: One can use paracetamol or ibuprofen, which are easily available without a prescription to reduce the fever and pain. Aspirin should not be given to children because it may cause Reye’s syndrome, a dangerous disease.
- Cold or Warm Compresses: The person should use cold or warm compress on the affected glands to help in reducing the pain and inflammation.
- Soft Diet: Starchy and low-fibre foods that do not require much chewing should be consumed.
- Isolation: To prevent spreading the virus, individuals with mumps should isolate themselves from other people until they are no longer contagious, which is about five days after the onset of swelling of the glands.
Prevention of Mumps
The only known method of preventing mumps disease is through immunisation. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is a combination vaccine administered in two doses during childhood. The first dose is given at 12-15 months of age, while the second dose is given at 4-6 years of age. Apart from vaccination, personal hygiene can also be employed in order to avoid the spread of it. This includes:
- Use soap and water to wash your hands often.
- Do not swap cups, glasses, spoons, forks, knives, and other items that are likely to be contaminated by saliva.
- Using a tissue or the elbow to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Washing hands and surfaces that are often touched.
Conclusion
Overall, mumps is a childhood illness that was prevalent in the past but has been controlled through vaccination. Immunisation is very crucial to avoid epidemic-like conditions. Seek mumps treatment if you observe any signs and symptoms to avoid complications and their spread. With knowledge of it and preventive measures, the effects of this communicable viral illness can be minimised.
