? About salivary and parotid gland issues

[finallyadx]

Hello everyone - I believe I am having salivary/parotid gland issues - swelling, pain, etc., etc. and am wondering for those of you have had the misfortune of having issues such as mine, which dr is the best to call?  This is my first official issue with this so I am hesitant to call the rheumy, not sure he is the one to call, do not know if the PCP is the right one to call or is it a dentist???

Thanks to all!

[BKreader]

It gets confusing with so any doctors. I was kind wonding the same thus morning. I would start with your PCP or even ENT if you have one.

[4Kids]

I had severe swelling when I had the huge flare in April of 11. After much searching from this doctor to that I found that an exam from an ENT was helpful as was a rheumy.  What got me to see all me people I needed was my optometrist wh referred me to an eye specialist ASAP who recognized Sj?gren's and then I got the proper treatment.  Mine have the down, finally, with meds and treatment and I hope your issues resolve as best they can as well.

Oh and prednisone for a short treatment was very helpful. After that it was time and salagen that got me working again and then plaque nil seems to help everything smooth out from there.

[LadyDi]

I would start with my primary care doctor and he or she can refer you to the appropriate specialist.

Take care and feel better.

[Daisy1234]

For parotid issues like swelling, I go and see my ENT for treatment.  My PCP was of little help until after receiving treatment from my ENT I learned what medication I needed and when and could tell my PCP what to prescribe, for how long and in what dosage.   

Fortunately, I have an outstanding ENT who is very knowledgeable about Sjs and has been wonderful and very helpful in taking care of me.   I did have to go thru a few ENTs who were not very knowledgeable about Sjs before I was lucky enough to get this one though.   

Hope you get the help you need for your issues soon.

Daisy 

[catherine1234]

The rheumatologist for sure!!!

[Suze]

Hi,
If there is any concern about a swelling or lump you should see an ENT. Your PCP or rheumy might be able to refer you. I just had a parotid mass removed, which fortunately was benign.

[finallyadx]

Thanks all for your replies...think I am having a flare due to extensive heat here in the NE...uugghh!