Sialadenitis
Sialadenitis Causes
Sialadenitis is a bacterial infection of the salivary gland caused by either of the following bacteria: staphylococcus, streptococcus, anaerobic or Haemophilus influenza.
Sialadenitis Definition
Sialadenitis is inflammation of salivary gland due to obstruction of the salivary gland or duct. Sialadenitis is very common among the elderly with salivary gland stones. There are also cases occurring in infants in the first few weeks after birth. Without proper treatment, Sialadenitis can progress into serious infection most especially in the injured and elderly.
Sialadenitis Diagnosis
Symptoms, history and physical findings can be of great help in diagnosing Sialadenitis. One or more of the following test might be necessary to confirm diagnosis of the disease: ? Sialography ? X-rays to detect salivary stones ? Magnetic Resonance Imaging or Computed Tomography Scan to detect tumors and stones that are not detectable through X-rays
Sialadenitis Symptoms and Signs
A person with Sialadenitis may produce some or all of the following symptoms: ? Enlarged salivary gland ? Tender salivary gland ? Painful lump in the cheek or under the chin ? A foul-tasting pus discharge from the salivary duct into the mouth ? In more severe cases, fever, chills and generally sick feeling is often present.
Sialadenitis Treatment
Usual treatment approaches for Sialadenitis include the following: ? Drinking fluids or receiving fluids through intravenous lines ? Antibiotic administration ? Introduction of warm compress on the infected gland ? Drinking orange juice or chewing sour, sugarless candies to encourage flow of saliva ? In some rare cases wherein infection continues to persist even with the mentioned treatment, surgery may be an option in order to drain the gland.