Diagnosis And Treatment of Mumps
Diagnosis of mumps is usually based on the swelling of the salivary glands in both cheeks (the parotid glands). Blood test or culture can be done to support the diagnosis.
There is no specific treatment for mumps. Treatment aims at relieving the pain and discomfort caused by the swelling.
- Persons with mumps should drink plenty of fluids, eat soft food and get adequate rest.
- Medicines like acetaminophen should be given to control fever.
- Warm salt-water gargles are also recommended.
- Intermittent ice or heat packs can help relieve the discomfort of the swelling.
- Children with mumps should be kept home from school or day care until 9 days after the swelling begins, or until the swelling goes away.
