Inflammatory and other conditions
Salivary Gland Inflammation and Salivary Stones
Assessment and treatment of salivary gland inflammation (sialadenitis) and salivary stones (sialolithiasis).
Overview
Also known as: sialadenitis, sialolithiasis, salivary stone, swelling under the jaw when eating, inflamed parotid gland
Inflammation of the salivary glands (sialadenitis) most often affects the parotid or submandibular gland. It may be acute — with pain, swelling and sometimes fever — or chronic, with recurrent episodes.
A common cause of recurrent swelling is salivary stones (sialolithiasis). A stone blocks the duct of the gland so that saliva cannot flow freely. Typically the gland swells and hurts during meals, when more saliva is produced, and then gradually goes down.
Treatment depends on the cause. In many cases non-surgical measures are tried first, and surgery is considered for recurrent problems or a stone that does not pass.
When to seek a consultation
- Swelling and pain under the jaw or in front of the ear, especially during meals.
- Recurrent episodes of swelling of the same gland.
- An unpleasant taste or pus in the mouth near the opening of the gland’s duct.
- Fever, redness and increasing swelling — if swelling increases rapidly or you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 112.
What treatment may involve
- An examination and, where needed, imaging (for example ultrasound) to look for a stone or another cause.
- Non-surgical measures — for example drinking enough fluids, massaging the gland and, in case of infection, medication as prescribed by a doctor.
- Removal of a stone from the duct of the gland when it can be reached.
- For recurrent inflammation or a stone deep inside the gland, discussion of removing the affected gland.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery is usually shorter after a stone is removed from the duct and longer after a gland is removed; in both cases it varies between individuals. In the first days there may be swelling and discomfort.
Advice on mouth care and fluid intake is given after treatment. If swelling returns, it is important to arrange a follow-up appointment.
Risks and alternatives
The risks depend on the type of procedure. Removing a stone from the duct may be followed by narrowing of the duct or a new stone forming. Removing the submandibular gland carries risks to nearby nerves — for example temporary or longer-lasting weakness at the corner of the mouth or numbness of the tongue — as well as a visible scar.
Alternatives include non-surgical treatment and observation, especially when episodes are infrequent and mild. The approach is chosen individually after an examination.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the gland under my jaw swell when I eat?
A common cause is a salivary stone that blocks the flow of saliva. An examination and, where needed, an ultrasound help to identify the cause.
Can a salivary stone come out on its own?
Small stones sometimes pass on their own, especially with non-surgical measures. Whether this is likely in your case is assessed after an examination.
When is a swollen salivary gland an emergency?
If the swelling increases rapidly, you have a high fever or difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 112 or seek emergency care immediately.
Does a salivary stone always need surgery?
Not always. Treatment depends on the size and position of the stone and how often symptoms occur, and is discussed individually.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.