Mumps
Mumps Causes
The disease is caused by the Paramyxovirus and is mainly transmitted by infected saliva.
Mumps Definition
Mumps or epidemic parotitis is a human viral disease. "Mumps" originally meant "to mumble", and came to be useful to the disease due to the side effects it causes. Mumps was a common childhood disease worldwide prior to the development of vaccination and the introduction of a vaccine. It remains to be a significant health threat in third world countries.
Mumps Diagnosis
During the infection, several non-specific findings may be present in the blood. WBC may be low, showing predominating lymphocytes. CFT is the most widely used procedure for the diagnosis of mumps. Other tests include neutralization, SRH, HAI, Solid phase ELISA or RIA as well as virus isolation.
Mumps Symptoms and Signs
The most typical symptom of mumps is the painful swelling of the salivary glands (classically the parotid gland) accompanied with fever. Among men, painful testicular swelling and rash may also occur. Though symptoms are not really severe among children, the symptoms among adults and teens may lead to complications such as infertility or subfertility. The two are relatively common although still rare in absolute terms.
Mumps Treatment
Relieving the discomfort caused by the symptoms is the only way to address the disease since it has no specific treatment. Applying ice or heat intermittently to the affected area can help relieve pain. Acetaminophen or Tylenol may also be used as a medication. Studies showing an increased risk of Reye's syndrome led physicians to discourage the use of Aspirin among children. Gargling with saline solution, eating soft foods, and extra fluid intake may also help ease symptoms.