Sialadenitis
Sialadenitis is inflammation and enlargement of one or more of the salivary (spit) glands. The salivary glands are responsible for producing and storing saliva. The three major salivary glands are the “parotid” (on the sides of the face in front of the ears), “submandibular” (under the jaw), and “sublingual” glands (under the tongue). All of these glands empty saliva into the mouth through small tubes called ducts.
Sialadenitis can occur due to infection, salivary stones, or an underlying autoimmune disorder. It usually affects the parotid and submandibular glands and is most common among the elderly.
The symptoms of sialadenitis can include:
- Swelling in the cheek and neck region, especially after eating
- Mouth or facial pain
- Dry mouth
- Foul taste or gritty feeling in the mouth
- Fever
- Chills
- Redness over the side of the face or upper neck
- Pus in the mouth
How We Can Help
Our Speech and Voice Pathologist can offer evaluation and treatment of various speech and swallowing disorders, including dysphagia, hoarseness, and head/neck cancers. Please contact Connecticut ENT Allergy & Sinus at either of our Waterbury offices at (203) 578-4630 or (203) 574-3777 to schedule an appointment.
