What should you know about mumps like symptoms?

Mumps often presents with swelling of one or both salivary glands, usually near the cheek or under the ear. The area may feel sore, and chewing or swallowing can become uncomfortable. Fever, low energy, headache and body aches may appear before or alongside the swelling. A symptom does not identify its cause by itself: dental problems, other viruses and lymph-node swelling can produce overlapping signs. Compare your symptoms with the information on [Swollen Glands](/symptoms/swollen-glands/) and [Mumps](/conditions/mumps/).

Call a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) service before attending in person if mumps may be contagious, so the clinic can reduce exposure to others. Rest, drink regularly and choose foods that do not require much chewing. Wash hands and avoid close face-to-face contact or shared household items. Keep a note of when the swelling, [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) or other symptoms began, any recent contacts and your vaccination history. Use only medicines suitable for you and follow label or clinician advice.

Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to keep fluids down, confusion, a stiff neck, severe headache, collapse or rapidly increasing swelling. Seek prompt medical advice if pain is severe, symptoms are worsening, or there is testicular pain, abdominal pain or a change in hearing. These problems need timely clinical review rather than home observation alone.

Ask which findings support mumps, whether another diagnosis needs consideration, how to protect family members, when normal activities can resume and whether [MMR Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/mmr-vaccination/) is relevant to your record.