How does mumps attack the body




















Current treatment can only help relieve the symptoms until the infection has run its course and the body has built up an immunity, much like a cold. In most cases, people recover from mumps within 2 weeks. Some steps can be taken to help relieve the symptoms of mumps:.

Mumps is due to an infection by the mumps virus. It can be transmitted by respiratory secretions e. When contracting mumps, the virus travels from the respiratory tract to the salivary glands and reproduces, causing the glands to swell. Individuals infected with the mumps virus are contagious for approximately 15 days 6 days before the symptoms start to show, and up to 9 days after they start.

The mumps virus is part of the paramyxovirus family, a common cause of infection, especially in children. If a pregnant woman contracts mumps in the first weeks of her pregnancy, she will have a slightly increased risk of miscarriage. As rare as some of these complications are, it is important to seek medical advice or help if an individual suspects they or their child, may be developing them. Normally, mumps can be diagnosed by its symptoms alone, especially by examining the facial swelling.

A doctor might also:. The mumps vaccine is the best method for preventing mumps; it can come on its own or as part of the MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine also defends the body against rubella and measles. The MMR vaccine is given to an infant when they are just over 1 year old and again, as a booster, just before they start school. Anyone born after the s would most probably have been given the MMR vaccine but, if unsure, it is always good to check with a doctor.

The mumps vaccine is routinely given to children in 82 countries. In many of these countries, encephalitis and deafness related to mumps have nearly disappeared. To minimize discomfort, children should eat a soft diet and avoid foods that require much chewing or are acidic. Analgesics, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen , may be used for headache and discomfort.

Boys or men with inflammation of the testes need bed rest. The scrotum may be supported with an athletic supporter or by an adhesive-tape bridge connected between the thighs. Ice packs may be applied to relieve pain.

If pancreatitis causes severe nausea and vomiting, fluids may be given by vein intravenously , and intake by mouth should be avoided for a few days. Children with meningitis or encephalitis may need intravenous fluids and acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or headache.

If seizures develop, antiseizure drugs may be needed. Merck and Co. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world. The Manual was first published in as a service to the community. Learn more about our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge.

This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Common Health Topics. Complications of mumps. Viral Infections in Infants and Children. Test your knowledge. Kawasaki disease is inflammation of the blood vessels vasculitis throughout the body. In which of the following body parts is inflammation of the blood vessels likely to cause the most serious problems?

More Content. Click here for the Professional Version. Photo courtesy of Sylvan Stool, MD. Mumps is caused by a virus. Most children recover with no problems, but infection can lead to meningitis or encephalitis.

Locating the Major Salivary Glands. Mumps may affect organs other than the salivary glands, including the. A doctor's evaluation. Mumps vaccine. Was This Page Helpful? Yes No. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine. Scrotal Swelling. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs. How does mumps affect the body? Family Practitioner. Continue Learning about Mumps What do disorientation and confusion mean if I have mumps?

Jeanne Morrison, PhD. If you experience feelings of disorientation or confusion during mumps infection, you could have dev What lifestyle changes should I make if I have mumps?



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