Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the symptoms of which include swelling in the jaw and neck. This eMedTV article provides a detailed look at the mumps virus, including how it is transmitted, symptoms, and treatment options.
A recent mumps outbreak in the United States has become a cause of concern for some people. This eMedTV resource explores this outbreak in detail, including information on possible causes and transmission methods, as well as vaccination information.
The mumps cause is simple -- it's the mumps virus. This segment of the eMedTV archives explains the transmission methods and symptoms that mumps cause, and provides links to more information.
As you might expect, the mumps virus is responsible for mumps. This page from the eMedTV archives explains who is most likely to be infected by it, how the virus is spread, and conditions that have symptoms similar to those seen with mumps.
Mumps transmission most often occurs through coughing and sneezing. This eMedTV article explains in detail how the virus is transmitted in this way and offers additional transmission methods, such as touching a surface infected with the virus.
As this eMedTV article explains, of all the mumps symptoms, swelling of the salivary glands is probably the most recognizable, but it isn't necessarily the most common. Other symptoms of mumps include fever, sore throat, and chills.
The incubation period for mumps varies for each person, but the average is 16 to 18 days. This segment of the eMedTV website explains this incubation period in detail, including the time period during which a person is most contagious.
A physical exam is just part of the process used when diagnosing mumps. This page of the eMedTV website explains in detail how doctors determine if a person has mumps, including tests that may be performed.
As this eMedTV page explains, treating mumps involves relieving the symptoms while the body fights the virus. This article offers several suggestions for providing supportive care, such as ibuprofen and warm compresses.
The most effective way to avoid mumps is to get vaccinated. However, other techniques can be used as well. This eMedTV article provides several suggestions for mumps prevention, such as frequent hand-washing.
The mumps vaccine is your best protection against the mumps virus. This segment of the eMedTV archives provides in-depth information on the vaccine, including who should and should not get it.
The best cure for mumps -- aside from not getting it in the first place -- is time. This eMedTV article explains that management for associated symptoms is often the only treatment needed; it also discusses in detail the mumps vaccine.
Complications of mumps are uncommon, but they do occur. In this segment of the eMedTV archives, the various complications are explained (such as pancreatitis and orchitis), including who usually gets them and related symptoms.
As this eMedTV article explains, pregnant women and non-pregnant women have the same symptoms of mumps, and pregnancy does not seem to affect the duration or prognosis of the disease. However, women who are pregnant should avoid the mumps vaccine.
