Why do we get swollen Parotid glands

[Billydude]

One thing I haven't been able to figure out is why my parotid glands are always swollen and sometimes even more so.  LIKE NOW!   Does that mean our bodies are fighting something?   Does anyone have any further info on this.

[Joe S.]

Quote from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parotid_gland

Other infections such as bacterial infections can cause parotitis as may blockage of the duct, whether from salivary duct calculi or external compression. Stones mainly occur within the main confluence of the ducts and within the main parotid duct. The patient usually complains of intense pain when salivating and tends to avoid foods which produce this symptom. In addition the parotid gland may become enlarged upon trying to eat. The pain can be reproduced in clinic via squirting lemon juice into the patient's mouth. Surgery depends upon the situation of the stone, if within the anterior aspect of the duct a simple incision into the buccal mucosa with sphinterotomy may allow removal, however if further posterior within the main duct, complete gland excision may be necessary.

Quote from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1191755/

We previously reported that parotid gland secretion is decreased in rats deprived of vitamin D

It looks like we may need more vitamin D when this happens. Lemon juice (ascorbic acid, i.e. vitamin C) may also help.

[Scottietottie]

Hi Billydude 

Unfortunately our stupid immune systems are fighting ourselves!!  They attack where we make moisture and in some cases our organs.

Take care - Scottie