When should a mumps patient go to the hospital?

Hello! Getting mumps can indeed be quite uncomfortable; not only does your face swell up like a hamster's cheeks, but it also makes eating and talking difficult.

In most cases, mumps is a "self-limiting disease," meaning it usually resolves on its own in about a week with good rest, plenty of fluids, and soft foods at home. However, if any of the following "warning signs" appear, don't try to tough it out; you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

I. Signs of Possible Meningitis

The mumps virus can sometimes be mischievous and travel to the brain, causing viral meningitis. This is quite dangerous and requires immediate attention. Symptoms include:

Persistent high fever: Body temperature over 39°C (102.2°F) that doesn't respond well to fever reducers.
Severe headache: A pain far more intense than a typical cold headache.
Nausea and frequent vomiting: Especially "projectile" vomiting, where stomach contents are expelled forcefully.
Lethargy and drowsiness: Constantly wanting to sleep, lacking energy, or even being difficult to wake up.
Stiff neck and light sensitivity (photophobia): Feeling unable to turn your neck, or experiencing discomfort in your eyes when exposed to bright light.

In summary: If you have a high fever accompanied by severe headache, frequent vomiting, and lethargy, go to the hospital immediately!

II. 'Alarm Bells' from Other Body Parts

Besides attacking the brain, the virus can also affect other organs, leading to complications:

Severe abdominal pain: Especially sudden, severe pain in the upper abdomen, possibly accompanied by nausea and vomiting. This could indicate pancreatitis.
(Males) Testicular swelling and pain: For post-pubescent or adult males, if one or both testicles suddenly become red, swollen, hot, and severely painful, this could be orchitis. This requires serious attention, as delayed treatment can affect future fertility.
(Females) Lower abdominal pain: Although less common, females may experience lower abdominal pain due to the virus attacking the ovaries, known as oophoritis.
Sudden hearing loss or tinnitus: A buzzing sound in the ears or sudden difficulty hearing could mean the virus has affected the auditory nerve, requiring immediate medical attention.

In summary: Besides facial swelling, if you experience sudden severe pain or abnormalities in your abdomen, testicles, or ears, don't hesitate—see a doctor.

III. Condition Not Improving or Worsening

Generally, parotid gland swelling peaks in 3-5 days and should then gradually subside. If a week has passed and your face is still swollen like a bun, or even more swollen, or if your fever keeps fluctuating, these are abnormal signs, and it's best to get a follow-up check-up.

In Summary

Mumps itself isn't terrifying; what's concerning are the complications mentioned above. Children usually experience milder symptoms and fewer complications. Adolescents and adults tend to have more severe symptoms and a higher chance of complications, so they need to be extra careful.

All in all, if you feel like "something isn't right this time" or "it's different from what I read online," don't try to guess at home. It's safest to go to a hospital and let a professional assess your condition. Wishing you a speedy recovery!