-This is an infectious disease, manifesting itself in swelling of the large salivary gland which lies in the cheek in front of the ear, and also partly in the neck below the ear. First one side of the face swells, and then the other. There is a good deal of fever and general distension, the tongue is rather white, the mouth smells unpleasantly, and there is a loss of appetite. The fever is irregular, but it lasts in general about a week. There is no danger, as a rule, but if the disease leaves the gland and attacks other parts, such as the heart, the testicles, or the brain, the condition becomes very serious. The incubation period is from eight days to three weeks.
Diagnosis.-The enormous swelling of the face, with pain, tenderness, salivation, and fever, and the absence of gumboil, or anything else to cause the swelling, sufficiently distinguish mumps from any other disease. In erysipelas there is much swelling, but it is not so definitely confined to the parts about the jaw and ear, and there is more redness of the skin.
General Treatment.-The greatest care must be taken to prevent chills. The usual diet for fever cases must be given, and measures taken to ventilate the room properly without causing draughts.
Medicines.-(Every hour or two.)
Mercurius 6.
-Is sufficient of itself in most cases.
Belladonna 3.
-Face swollen or red, and like erysipelas; brain affected.
Pulsatilla 3.
-If the inflammation leaves the gland and goes to the testicle.
Carbo veg. 6.
-Swelling hard, and lasting a long time.
Rhus. 3.
-Swelling dark red, affecting left side.
