Salivary Gland Issues: Swelling, Stones, and Infections

Common salivary gland issues include swelling from infections or stones, salivary stones or sialolithiasis that block saliva flow, recurrent infections or sialadenitis, and tumors or growths in the parotid or submandibular glands. Dr. Brett Leavers is a Head and Neck Surgeon in Sydney who treats salivary gland issues including parotid or submandibular swelling, pain, recurrent infections, and stones. During a consultation, he reviews your GP referral, performs a thorough neck and oral cavity examination, may perform nasendoscopy or ultrasound, reviews any CT scans, explains findings clearly, and discusses treatment or surgical options. A GP referral is required before booking.

You are eating a meal. Suddenly, your jaw swells. Pain shoots through your cheek or under your chin. The swelling goes down after an hour. Then it happens again at the next meal.

Or maybe you have a persistent swelling below your ear that has been there for weeks. It is not painful, but it is getting larger.

These could be salivary gland issues.

You have three pairs of major salivary glands. The parotid glands are in front of your ears. The submandibular glands are under your jaw. The sublingual glands are under your tongue. They produce saliva to help you chew, swallow, and digest food.

According to medical literature, salivary stones affect approximately 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 30,000 people annually. Salivary gland infections or sialadenitis are more common in older adults and those with dehydration or chronic illness. Most salivary gland tumors are benign, with only 20 percent being malignant.

For travelers and digital nomads, salivary gland issues can be distressing. Swelling that comes and goes with meals. Pain that interferes with eating. Infections that require antibiotics.

This guide will help you understand salivary gland issues, recognize symptoms, and know when to see a head and neck surgeon like Dr. Brett Leavers in Sydney.

Related article: Neck Lumps: When to Worry and When to See a Specialist

What Travelers Want to Know About Salivary Gland Issues

Here are the most common questions travelers ask about salivary gland problems.

• What are the major salivary glands?
  The parotid glands in front of the ears, submandibular glands under the jaw, and sublingual glands under the tongue.
• What causes salivary gland swelling?
  Causes include salivary stones blocking ducts, infections, autoimmune diseases, tumors, and dehydration.
• What does a salivary stone feel like?
  Pain and swelling when eating that goes away after the meal. The stone blocks saliva flow.
• Are salivary gland tumors common?
  They are rare. Most are benign. Approximately 80 percent of parotid tumors are benign.
• Can dehydration cause salivary gland problems?
  Yes, dehydration makes saliva thicker and more likely to form stones or become infected.
• When should I see a head and neck surgeon?
  See a surgeon for persistent swelling, recurrent infections, a hard lump, or symptoms that do not improve.

The Salivary Glands: Anatomy and Function

Understanding your salivary glands helps you understand what can go wrong.

Parotid glands:

• Located in front of each ear
• The largest salivary glands
• Produce watery saliva
• The parotid duct opens inside the cheek near the upper molars

Submandibular glands:

• Located under each side of the jaw
• Produce mixed watery and mucous saliva
• The submandibular duct opens under the tongue
• Most common location for salivary stones

Sublingual glands:

• Located under the tongue
• The smallest major salivary glands
• Produce thick, mucous saliva
• Multiple small ducts open under the tongue

Hundreds of minor salivary glands:

• Located throughout the mouth, lips, cheeks, and throat
• Produce small amounts of saliva continuously

Saliva keeps your mouth moist, helps you chew and swallow, protects your teeth from decay, and contains enzymes that begin digestion.

Dr. Brett Leavers is a Head and Neck Surgeon who diagnoses and treats salivary gland issues.

Resource: Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Sydney

Common Salivary Gland Issues

Several conditions can affect the salivary glands.

Salivary stones or sialolithiasis:

• Calcium deposits that form in the salivary ducts
• Most common in the submandibular gland
• Block saliva flow, causing swelling and pain when eating
• Size ranges from tiny grains to several millimeters

Salivary gland infection or sialadenitis:

• Bacterial or viral infection of the salivary gland
• Often caused by decreased saliva flow
• More common in older adults and dehydrated patients
• Can be acute or chronic

Salivary gland swelling or sialadenosis:

• Non-inflammatory, non-neoplastic enlargement
• Associated with medical conditions like diabetes, alcoholism, or bulimia
• Usually painless and affects both sides

Salivary gland tumors:

• Abnormal growths in the salivary glands
• Most are benign, approximately 80 percent of parotid tumors
• Can be benign or malignant
• Require surgical removal for diagnosis and treatment

Autoimmune salivary gland disease:

• Sjogren’s syndrome causes dry mouth and dry eyes
• The immune system attacks salivary and tear glands
• Can cause recurrent swelling and infections

Related article: Understanding Thyroid Nodules

Salivary Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Salivary stones are the most common cause of salivary gland swelling.

Why stones form:

• Saliva becomes thick or concentrated
• Dehydration is a major risk factor
• Certain medications reduce saliva flow
• The submandibular gland produces thicker saliva, making stones more common

Symptoms of salivary stones:

• Pain and swelling in the affected gland when eating
• Symptoms begin within minutes of starting a meal
• Swelling subsides over 30 to 60 minutes
• May see or feel a stone in the duct
• In severe cases, constant pain or infection

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination with palpation of the gland and duct
• Ultrasound to visualize the stone
• CT scan for smaller or multiple stones
• Sialendoscopy to see inside the duct

Treatment options:

• Increase fluid intake to promote saliva flow
• Suck on sour candies to stimulate saliva production
• Massage the gland to encourage stone passage
• Antibiotics if infection is present
• Sialendoscopy to remove stones
• Surgery to remove the gland for recurrent or large stones

Dr. Brett Leavers can help determine which treatment is right for you.

Salivary Gland Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Infections can occur when saliva flow is reduced.

Why infections occur:

• Dehydration reduces saliva flow
• Stones block saliva drainage
• Bacteria travel from the mouth into the duct
• Poor oral hygiene increases risk
• Chronic illness or immunosuppression

Symptoms of salivary gland infection:

• Pain and swelling in the gland
• Redness of the overlying skin
• Fever and chills
• Pus draining from the duct
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Pain when eating

Common bacteria:

• Staphylococcus aureus, most common
• Streptococcus species
• Anaerobic bacteria

Treatment for infection:

• Antibiotics directed at the likely bacteria
• Hydration to increase saliva flow
• Warm compresses to the area
• Gland massage to express infected saliva
• Sour candies to stimulate flow
• Surgery for abscess drainage if needed

Prevention:

• Stay hydrated, especially in dry climates
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Treat underlying causes of dry mouth
• Avoid medications that reduce saliva flow when possible

Salivary Gland Swelling Without Infection

Not all swelling is caused by stones or infection.

Sialadenosis:

• Non-inflammatory, non-neoplastic enlargement
• Usually affects both parotid glands
• Painless swelling
• Associated with diabetes, alcoholism, bulimia, or malnutrition

Causes of sialadenosis:

• Metabolic disorders like diabetes
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Endocrine disorders
• Chronic alcohol use

Treatment:

• Treat the underlying medical condition
• No specific treatment for the gland itself
• Swelling may improve with treatment of the cause

Related article: Deviated Septum and Nasal Blockage

Salivary Gland Tumors: When to Worry

Most salivary gland tumors are benign, but all require evaluation.

Benign tumors:

• Pleomorphic adenoma, most common benign tumor
• Warthin tumor, second most common
• Slow-growing, painless lump
• Can become large over years
• Approximately 80 percent of parotid tumors are benign

Malignant tumors:

• Mucoepidermoid carcinoma, most common malignancy
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma
• Adenocarcinoma
• Approximately 20 percent of parotid tumors are malignant
• Higher percentage in submandibular and sublingual glands

Features that suggest malignancy:

• Rapid growth
• Fixation to surrounding tissue
• Facial nerve weakness or paralysis
• Pain
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

Diagnosis:

• Ultrasound with fine needle aspiration biopsy
• CT or MRI for surgical planning
• The biopsy is the most accurate way to diagnose

Treatment:

• Surgical removal of the tumor
• May require removal of part or all of the gland
• Radiation therapy for some malignancies

If you have a persistent lump in front of your ear or under your jaw, see a head and neck surgeon.

Why Travelers Are at Risk for Salivary Gland Issues

Travel can increase the risk of salivary gland problems.

Dehydration:

• The most important risk factor for stones and infections
• Travelers often drink less water than usual
• Air travel causes dehydration
• Hot climates increase fluid loss

Diet changes:

• New foods may be drier or harder to chew
• Changes in eating schedule
• Reduced saliva stimulation

Medical care access:

• Difficulty seeing a doctor for minor symptoms
• Delayed treatment for stones or infections
• Language barriers

Stress and fatigue:

• Stress reduces saliva flow
• Fatigue weakens the immune system
• Poor sleep affects hydration

Prevention tips for travelers:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Stay hydrated before and during flights
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Suck on sour candies to stimulate saliva flow
• See a doctor promptly for symptoms

When to See a Head and Neck Surgeon

Do you have swelling in front of your ear or under your jaw?
↓
Does the swelling come and go with meals?
↓ YES → Likely a salivary stone. See a doctor.
↓ NO → Persistent swelling needs evaluation.

Is the swelling painful?
↓ YES WITH EATING → Likely a stone.
↓ YES CONSTANT → Possible infection or tumor.
↓ NO PAIN → Possible benign tumor or sialadenosis.

Do you have fever, redness, or pus from the duct?
↓ YES → Likely an infection. See a doctor promptly.
↓ NO → Continue monitoring.

Has the swelling been present for more than 2 weeks?
↓ YES → See a head and neck surgeon for evaluation.
↓ NO → Monitor symptoms, increase hydration.

Do you have a hard, fixed lump that is growing?
↓ YES → See a head and neck surgeon immediately.
↓ NO → Continue monitoring.

What Happens During a Head and Neck Consultation for Salivary Gland Issues

Based on Dr. Leavers’ Head and Neck Surgery page, here is what happens during a consultation.

Step 1: Review of your GP referral and medical history

The doctor reads your referral and asks about your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and any associated issues like dry mouth.

Step 2: Thorough examination of the neck and salivary glands

The doctor feels your parotid and submandibular glands. They check for swelling, tenderness, and lumps. They may palpate the duct to feel for stones.

Step 3: Oral cavity assessment

The doctor examines your mouth, including the openings of the salivary ducts. They look for redness, pus, or visible stones.

Step 4: Nasendoscopy if required

A small flexible camera is inserted through your nose to view the throat and check for any related issues.

Step 5: Review of any ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans

If you have had imaging, the doctor reviews it. If not, they may order an ultrasound.

Step 6: Clear explanation of findings

The doctor tells you what they found and what it means in plain language.

Step 7: Treatment planning or surgical discussion

The doctor outlines next steps, which may include hydration, antibiotics, sialendoscopy, or surgery

Diagnostic Tests for Salivary Gland Issues

Dr. Brett Leavers may recommend several tests to evaluate your salivary gland problem.

Ultrasound of the salivary glands:

• The most common test for salivary gland issues
• Shows stones, masses, and gland enlargement
• No radiation exposure
• Can guide fine needle aspiration biopsy

Fine needle aspiration biopsy:

• A thin needle is inserted into the gland to collect cells
• The most accurate way to diagnose tumors
• Performed under ultrasound guidance
• Results usually available within a week

CT scan or sialography:

• CT scan shows stones and gland anatomy
• Sialography injects dye into the duct before X-ray
• Used for complex stones or recurrent infections

MRI scan:

• Provides detailed images of soft tissues
• Best for evaluating tumors
• Shows the relationship of tumors to the facial nerve

Sialendoscopy:

• A thin endoscope is inserted into the salivary duct
• Allows the doctor to see stones and strictures
• Can be used to remove stones
• Performed under local or general anesthesia

Your head and neck surgeon will explain which tests are right for your situation.

Treatment Options for Salivary Gland Issues

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

For salivary stones:

• Conservative: hydration, sialagogues like sour candies, gland massage
• Sialendoscopy: stone removal through the duct
• Lithotripsy: shock waves to break stones, rarely used
• Surgery: removal of the gland for recurrent or large stones

For salivary gland infections:

• Antibiotics
• Hydration
• Warm compresses
• Gland massage
• Abscess drainage if needed

For salivary gland tumors:

• Surgical removal of the tumor
• Superficial parotidectomy for parotid tumors
• Total parotidectomy for deep lobe or malignant tumors
• Submandibular gland removal for submandibular tumors

For sialadenosis:

• Treat the underlying medical condition
• No specific treatment for the gland

Dr. Brett Leavers can help determine which treatment is right for you.

How to Prevent Salivary Gland Issues While Traveling

Prevention is better than treatment.

Stay hydrated:

• Drink water throughout the day
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol
• Monitor urine color, pale yellow indicates good hydration

Stimulate saliva flow:

• Chew sugar-free gum
• Suck on sour candies
• Eat foods that require chewing

Maintain oral hygiene:

• Brush and floss regularly
• Rinse your mouth after meals
• See a dentist regularly

Manage dry mouth:

• Use saliva substitutes if needed
• Avoid medications that cause dry mouth when possible
• Discuss dry mouth with your doctor

Monitor for symptoms:

• Pay attention to swelling or pain when eating
• Note any persistent lumps
• See a doctor promptly for persistent symptoms

What Travelers Say About Salivary Gland Issues

Real experiences from patients who sought treatment.

“Every time I ate, my jaw would swell up like a hamster. It was embarrassing and painful. Dr. Leavers found a stone in my submandibular duct. Sialendoscopy removed it in 20 minutes. I can eat normally again.” – Frequent traveler

“I noticed a lump in front of my ear that was slowly growing. I put off seeing a doctor for a year because I was traveling. Dr. Leavers removed a benign parotid tumor. I wish I had gone sooner.” – Digital nomad

“My parotid gland kept getting infected. I was on antibiotics constantly. Dr. Leavers diagnosed a stricture in my duct. Balloon dilation fixed the problem. No more infections.” – Remote worker

How to Get a GP Referral for Salivary Gland Issues

In Australia, you need a GP referral to see a head and neck surgeon like Dr. Brett Leavers.

Steps to get a referral via telehealth:

1. Choose a telehealth service like InstantScripts or Qoctor
2. Book a 15-minute video consultation
3. Describe your salivary gland symptoms clearly
4. Tell the GP about swelling with meals or persistent lumps
5. Ask for a referral to a head and neck surgeon
6. Receive your referral by email instantly

Related article: Telehealth for Travelers: How to See a Doctor Online

Dr. Brett Leavers: Head and Neck Surgeon in Sydney

Dr. Brett Leavers is a head and neck surgeon experienced in assessing and managing salivary gland issues.

His expertise includes:

• Neck lumps or unexplained neck swelling
• Thyroid nodules, goitre, or thyroid enlargement
• Salivary gland issues including parotid or submandibular swelling
• Enlarged or persistent lymph nodes
• Throat or neck fullness that does not resolve
• Hoarseness associated with neck or throat symptoms
• Suspicious, persistent, or changing neck masses

Why patients choose Dr. Leavers:

• Multiple clinic locations across Sydney
• Accepts telehealth GP referrals
• Provides thorough neck and oral cavity examinations
• Clear explanation of findings and options
• Coordinates surgical care when required

A valid GP referral is required before booking. This is not for emergencies.

Resource: Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Sydney

For a complete review of Dr. Brett Leavers as the best ENT doctor in Sydney for salivary gland issues, read our detailed guide: Best ENT Doctor in Sydney Nomad Experience

What Impressed Me About Dr. Leavers’ Approach to Salivary Gland Issues

I have read many resources about salivary gland issues. Dr. Brett Leavers’ website stands out.

What impressed me:

• He clearly explains the different salivary glands and their functions
• He distinguishes between stones, infections, and tumors
• He describes the diagnostic process including ultrasound and biopsy
• He discusses treatment options from conservative to surgical
• He emphasizes that most tumors are benign but need evaluation
• He does not dismiss patients’ concerns

His practical, educational approach helped me understand salivary gland health.

If you are based in Sydney, please visit Dr. Brett Leavers for your salivary gland concerns. His expertise as a head and neck surgeon speaks for itself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salivary Gland Issues for Travelers

1. What are the major salivary glands?
   The parotid glands in front of the ears, submandibular glands under the jaw, and sublingual glands under the tongue.
2. What causes salivary gland swelling?
   Causes include salivary stones, infections, autoimmune diseases, tumors, and dehydration.
3. What does a salivary stone feel like?
   Pain and swelling when eating that goes away after the meal.
4. How are salivary stones treated?
   Treatment includes hydration, sour candies, sialendoscopy, or surgery.
5. What are symptoms of a salivary gland infection?
   Pain, swelling, redness, fever, and pus from the duct.
6. Are most salivary gland tumors benign?
   Yes, approximately 80 percent of parotid tumors are benign.
7. When should I see a head and neck surgeon for a salivary gland issue?
   See a surgeon for persistent swelling, recurrent infections, a hard lump, or symptoms that do not improve.
8. Can dehydration cause salivary gland problems?
   Yes, dehydration makes saliva thicker and more likely to form stones or become infected.
9. What is sialendoscopy?
   Sialendoscopy is a thin endoscope inserted into the salivary duct to remove stones.
10. What is a parotid gland?
    The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland, located in front of each ear.
11. What is the submandibular gland?
    The submandibular gland is located under the jaw and is the most common site for salivary stones.
12. Can I see a head and neck surgeon in Sydney without a referral?
    No, you need a valid GP referral to see any ENT specialist in Australia.
13. How do I get a GP referral as a traveler in Australia?
    Use a telehealth service like InstantScripts or Qoctor for a 15-minute online consultation.
14. How much does a head and neck consultation cost in Sydney?
    Private ENT consultations typically cost between 200 and 350 Australian dollars.
15. Where are Dr. Brett Leavers clinic locations?
    His clinics are in Darlinghurst, Kogarah, Rozelle, Eastwood, and Griffith.
16. What is Sjogren’s syndrome?
    Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes dry mouth and dry eyes.
17. Can stress cause salivary gland problems?
    Stress can reduce saliva flow, which may contribute to stones and infections.
18. Does travel insurance cover salivary gland consultations?
    Some policies cover specialist visits. Check your policy before booking.
19. Can I get a written report from my consultation?
    Yes, Dr. Leavers provides written reports you can take anywhere.
20. Who is the best head and neck surgeon for salivary gland issues in Sydney?
    Dr. Brett Leavers is highly recommended for salivary gland issues, neck lumps, and thyroid nodules.

Final Words: Take Salivary Gland Issues Seriously

Salivary gland issues are often benign and treatable.

But do not ignore persistent swelling, recurrent infections, or a hard lump. These require evaluation by a head and neck surgeon.

Stay hydrated, especially when traveling. Stimulate saliva flow with sour candies or gum. See a doctor promptly for symptoms.

If you are in Sydney, Dr. Brett Leavers is a trusted Head and Neck Surgeon who can evaluate your salivary gland issue, explain your options, and create a treatment plan.

Protect your salivary glands. Keep eating comfortably. Keep traveling.

Summary Table for Salivary Gland Issues

Condition	Common Symptoms	Treatment
Salivary stones	Swelling and pain with meals	Hydration, sialendoscopy, surgery
Salivary gland infection	Pain, swelling, fever, pus	Antibiotics, hydration, drainage
Sialadenosis	Painless swelling of both parotids	Treat underlying condition
Benign tumor	Slow-growing, painless lump	Surgical removal
Malignant tumor	Rapid growth, fixation, pain	Surgery, possible radiation

Trusted head and neck surgeon in Sydney: Dr. Brett Leavers
GP referral required: Yes, via telehealth
Clinic locations: Darlinghurst, Kogarah, Rozelle, Eastwood, Griffith

Related articles:

• Neck Lumps: When to Worry and When to See a Specialist
• Understanding Thyroid Nodules
• General ENT Concerns for Digital Nomads
• Best ENT Doctor in Sydney Nomad Review
• Telehealth for Travelers

YMYL Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

This post is written based on general medical knowledge about salivary gland issues. I am not a medical professional. I am sharing educational information about salivary gland conditions and when to see a specialist.

I am not giving medical advice. I am not promoting any specific doctor or service directly. I am simply sharing educational information about salivary gland issues and the expertise of Dr. Brett Leavers as a head and neck surgeon.

If you have salivary gland swelling, pain, a lump, or any other medical concern, please consult a qualified healthcare professional in person.

If you are based in Sydney, I encourage you to visit Dr. Brett Leavers for a professional evaluation. This is an educational recommendation based on his expertise as a head and neck surgeon, not a medical endorsement.

For emergencies, go to a hospital or call emergency services immediately.