Why do salivary glands swell?

Many different problems prevent saliva from draining by impairing the function of the salivary glands or by blocking the ducts. For these reasons, the salivary glands swell.

If we list the common causes of salivary gland swelling:

The first of the most common causes of swollen salivary glands is salivary gland stones. These stones are actually crystallized deposits of saliva. These stones can sometimes block the flow of saliva, which in turn can cause the salivary glands to swell.

Second, infections caused by various viruses and bacteria can also cause our salivary gland to swell. Mumps is the best-known example of these infections.

Third, benign or malignant tumors can also cause swelling in the salivary gland.

Fourth, cysts — whether congenital or developing after infection and trauma — can also cause swelling in the salivary glands.

Fifth, autoimmune diseases that cause the body to attack itself, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can also cause swelling in the salivary gland.

For this reason, the treatment of swelling in the salivary gland also varies depending on its cause. To identify the cause, an ear, nose, and throat examination must be performed, followed by tests directed at the cause.