Mumps disease symptoms

Short answer
Mumps disease symptoms often include fever, tiredness, headache and tender swelling of salivary glands near the jaw or ears.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Common symptoms
- Fever, fatigue, headache and tender jaw-area swelling can occur.
- Mouth and jaw
- Chewing, swallowing or opening the mouth may be uncomfortable.
- Urgent symptoms
- Confusion, breathing difficulty or severe headache need urgent assessment.
What symptoms can look like
The swelling may make the face look fuller and can hurt when chewing, swallowing or opening the mouth. A dry mouth, reduced appetite, muscle aches or general weakness may accompany it. Swelling can affect one or both sides and may not appear in every case. A [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) or [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) has many possible causes, so a clinician must consider the complete history and examination rather than treating one symptom as proof of mumps.
Some complications cause symptoms away from the jaw, including severe headache, neck stiffness, abdominal pain or testicular pain. These changes deserve prompt attention.
Practical symptom care
Rest, drink regularly and choose soft foods if chewing is uncomfortable. Use age-appropriate fever or pain relief according to the label or clinical advice. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery or towels, and limit close contact while infection is suspected. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) and ask about [MMR Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/mmr-vaccination/) records.
Warning signs
Get urgent medical help for confusion, seizure, severe headache with neck stiffness, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, severe dehydration, sudden hearing change, severe abdominal pain or testicular pain and swelling. Seek prompt advice if swelling is worsening, drinking is difficult or fever does not settle. More information is available on [Mumps](/conditions/mumps/).
Questions for an appointment
Ask whether the symptom pattern fits mumps, whether testing is needed, how to manage pain, how long to avoid close contact and which warning signs matter most.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Does everyone with mumps have swollen cheeks?
No. Swelling may be mild, one-sided or absent, particularly in a mild illness.
What should I do if symptoms are worsening?
Contact a clinician promptly, and seek emergency help for severe neurological, breathing or dehydration symptoms.
Related
Related reading
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.