Sialadenitis

Sialadenitis is the infection of the salivary glands caused by a bacteria or virus. The parotid, located in front of the ear and submandibular, placed below the chin are the glands, which are affected most commonly. They cause ache, tenderness, redness, and steady concentrated inflammation of the region affected. It can be either acute or chronic, and is frequent among adults with salivary gland stones. However, it can occur to anyone, including infants. If not treated well, Sialadenitis can progress into a severe infection.   Causes of Sialadenitis. Bacteria cause most of the acute cases, especially staphylococcus infections. Ignorance of oral hygiene is a major reason for this infection. Apart from these, infections like HIV, herpes, and mumps can also lead to the swelling of the salivary gland. Chronic Sialadenitis is often caused by salivary stones, which are nothing but deposits of calcium and different minerals that get accumulated in the glands and lead to blockages. Although less frequent, a person can also develop this infection due to the result of the immune system responding to other drugs given to treat different glandular cases.