hi i have swollen submandular gland and possible blockage

Posted , 3 users are following.

i also experience dry mouth and slimy thick saliver anyone else had this problem and any advice how to deal with it

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Dawn. I have had the same recurring problem over the last two years with repeated infection in the gland and a stone blocking it. After several courses of antibiotics I was eventually referred to a Maxillo-Facial Surgeon and after scans and X-rays etc he removed the gland earlier this year. I have some slight paralysis in my lip as a result but am assured that this should be temporary. I'm very glad I've had it dealt with as it was very painful and the gland was permanently swollen. I would recommend you get referred. It only involved one night in hospital. Hope it goes well for you. 
    • Posted

      hi julie thanks for reply could you tell me what scans or x rays are needed  as i told luis17129 my consultant on examined me i also have problems a yellow tongue any ideas my gland swells but no pain
    • Posted

      Hi Dawn. My GP sent me for an ultrasound which didn't show anything so he just gave me more antibiotics every time it became infected. Eventually my dentist referred me to the Dental Hospital to see the Max-Fax Consultant and I had an X-ray which showed a stone and he didn't hesitate in saying the gland needed to be removed. I can feel the stone in my mouth but that didn't come out with the op. Apparently it's too far back, but because the gland is now out it shouldn't cause any problems. I tried the sweet sucking idea but that didn't work at all. Luis's ideas of warm compresses and salt water gargles are good ideas and should help. Try asking your GP to send you for an X-ray or scan. Hope you get some help soon. Julie
    • Posted

      hi julie seems like you had hard time getting help too pleased your now ok was it just a normal xray you had or dental also i would there only be pain when theres infection
    • Posted

      Hi Dawn. I seem to remember it was a dental X-ray though it was difficult to get the plate down to where the stone was and the X-ray just caught the end of it. I mainly got pain when it was infected and then it was excruciating and very difficult to eat but it was also uncomfortable when I ate fruit and the gland would swell even more. It's worth persevering in trying to get help. Julie 
  • Posted

    Blockage of the salivary duct can cause a painful swelling of the gland when you eat.  It can be due to presence of stones or painless lump (often benign, though needs thorough   checking). When the blockage is severe, it can lead to persistent inflammation of the gland.

    In your case, slimy thick saliva indicates presence of stones. Your consultant will discuss the options with you whether stones can be removed or else gland needs to be operated and removed. If stones are stuck inside the submandibular gland, the gland can become permanently inflamed and swollen. If it gives you undue discomfort over a longer time, your specialist may advise to have the gland removed.

     If a lump has developed in the submandibular gland, your surgeon may recommend removing the gland.

    Meanwhile, apply warm compresses to the area to increase comfort. Avoid colas and alcohol beverages when the salivary glands are swollen as they may aggravate the condition. Salt being mild antiseptic may destroy the germs and water helps to lubricate the glands. Gargle at least three times in a day when your salivary glands are swollen. Stop alcohol and smoking as they both aggravate the condition.

    Hope it helps.

    Luis

    • Posted

      thanks for your imfomative reply luis, my consultant said to drink plenty and suck sour sweets i asked about stones he said i wasn't at that stage yet  but i have had no x rays or scan how can he know? the gland swells slightly when eating but no pain been back to gp for follow up and been told hospital discharged and need re referal i am so upset  and angry . will do the salt water gargle as you advised any more advice would be appreciated

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