Reasons why a parotid gland might not function correctly

Many people are not aware if their parotid gland is functioning normally or not. However, salivary gland health is important to bring to people’s attention because there are a number of different disorders that can occur in the parotid gland. The CENTER for Advanced Parotid & Facial Nerve Surgery located in Beverly Hills is world-renowned and specializes in the most advanced parotid gland treatment. Dr. Larian and his team of parotid experts work to diagnose your condition and devise an individualized plan in order to treat your specific case. Below are 5 common problems that could occur in the parotid gland.

Parotid Tumors

The majority of salivary gland tumors that occur actually originate in the parotid gland, with roughly about 20% of them being cancerous. It is still very important that the mass is evaluated by a parotid expert as soon as possible. A parotid tumor that is benign can still continue to grow and affect its surrounding tissues and the function of other organs.

Deep Lobe Parotid Tumors

It is very important that patients have a deep lobe parotid tumor removed surgically because it can threaten the surrounding tissues and possibly become cancerous. It is highly critical that this procedure is performed by a parotid surgeon expert because of the tumor’s location in the parapharyngeal space and its close proximity to many important but fragile structures.

Parotid Stones

Parotid stones occur when small calcium deposits form in the salivary gland. Most stones occur in the submandibular glands on the floor, which can block saliva flow into the mouth. Non-surgical treatments include applying heat, massaging the area, and using antibiotics. If these methods do not treat the infections or the gland is still blocked and swollen, surgery may be required via a minimally invasive procedure called sialoendoscopy, a specialty of Dr. Larian’s.

Parotid Cysts

Parotid cysts are masses that occur in the parotid glands, and only occur in about 5% of all tumors in the salivary gland. Studies show that these cysts occur equally in men and woman and there may be some link with viral infections, although experts are not convinced of their exact cause. The cyst is either filled with fluid or malignant, and can be diagnosed using a fine needle biopsy and imaging studies.

Parotitis

Parotitis greatly affects one or both of the parotid glands because they are the most prone to infection when compared to the other salivary glands. There are many different reasons that explain why parotitis can disrupt function in the parotid gland. Salivary gland blockage, auto-immune disease, diabetes, radiation in the head or neck, or viral infection may cause parotitis. Some common symptoms include facial swelling, pain in the area, and dry mouth.

Schedule a Consultation regarding
the Parotid Gland today!

If you suspect any issues with the function of your parotid gland, schedule an appoint with Dr. Larian at the CENTER for Advanced Parotid & Facial Nerve Surgery in Beverly Hills today. Dr. Larian is a leading parotid expert specializing in using the minimally invasive surgery techniques to treat many salivary gland disorders. Call our office today to receive the highest level of patient care.