What are the most common complications of mumps?

Hi, regarding mumps complications, I'd like to share my understanding to help you better grasp the situation.

As we all know, mumps itself involves swollen cheeks, primarily due to a viral infection of the parotid glands. In most cases, especially for children, a good week of rest is usually enough for recovery. However, sometimes this virus isn't so well-behaved; it can "wander" to other parts of the body and cause trouble, leading to what are called "complications."

Here are some of the more common ones, explained in simple terms:

1. Orchitis

What it is: This is the most "favored" complication of mumps, especially affecting males after puberty (around 14 years old and above). The virus travels through the bloodstream to the testicles, causing inflammation.
Symptoms: It usually occurs a few days after the parotid glands swell. There will be a sudden high fever, and one or both testicles will become swollen and painful, possibly to the point where walking becomes difficult.
Severity: Although the process is painful, most people recover completely after treatment. The most common concern, "will it affect fertility?", indeed carries a risk, as inflammation can damage the sperm-producing tissue. However, the good news is that only a small number of cases with severe inflammation in both testicles lead to infertility; most people are fine.

2. Meningitis / Encephalitis

What it is: This sounds the most frightening; it's when the virus invades our brain or the meninges (membranes surrounding the brain).
Symptoms: You might experience severe headaches, persistent high fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck (it will be very difficult and painful to touch your chin to your chest).
Severity: While it sounds scary, viral meningitis caused by mumps is much milder than bacterial meningitis. With timely medical treatment, the vast majority of people recover completely with few long-term sequelae. Nevertheless, if these symptoms appear, you must see a doctor immediately!

3. Pancreatitis

What it is: This is when the virus "causes trouble" in the pancreas.
Symptoms: The main symptoms are severe upper abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Severity: Pancreatitis is not a minor issue; it requires fasting and hospitalization. So, if you experience unusual abdominal pain, you should also seek medical attention promptly.

4. Oophoritis

What it is: This occurs in females and is similar to orchitis in males, but it is much less common.
Symptoms: It feels like menstrual cramps, with pain in the lower abdomen.
Severity: Generally, the symptoms are mild, and it's rarely known to affect female fertility, so women don't need to be overly anxious.

5. Hearing Loss

What it is: This is a less common but relatively serious complication. The virus can damage the auditory nerve in the inner ear.
Symptoms: You might suddenly feel deaf in one ear, or experience a significant decrease in hearing, possibly accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and dizziness.
Severity: This damage can be temporary or permanent. Therefore, if any hearing problems occur, you should immediately inform a doctor.

In summary:

If you get mumps, don't just think of it as a minor issue of "swollen cheeks." During your recovery, pay close attention to other changes in your body. Especially for young men, if your testicles start to hurt, or if you experience severe headaches or abdominal pain, don't try to tough it out. Going to the hospital promptly is the correct course of action.