What are the first signs of mumps?

Mumps is a viral infection that can cause painful swelling of the salivary glands, especially in front of or below the ears. The swelling may make the face look fuller and chewing or swallowing uncomfortable. Some people have mild illness or no obvious gland swelling. Headache, reduced appetite, dry mouth, and general aches can come first. Testicular pain or swelling can occur in some males after puberty and needs medical advice.

Contact a GP for advice before attending a clinic so arrangements can reduce exposure to other people. Rest, drink fluids, and choose soft foods if chewing hurts. Avoid sharing cups, utensils, towels, or close face-to-face contact. Stay away from school, work, or group settings according to local clinical advice, particularly while the glands are swollen. Do not take antibiotics unless a clinician identifies a bacterial problem.

Seek urgent help for severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck, breathing or swallowing difficulty, dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. Prompt assessment is needed for testicular pain or swelling, severe abdominal pain, hearing changes, or persistent vomiting. A clinician can consider other causes of swollen glands and advise about testing, isolation, and vaccination status.

Ask whether the symptoms fit mumps or another infection, how long to avoid close contact, and how to manage pain and hydration. Ask whether household contacts need vaccination advice or symptom monitoring.