Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes A Swollen Parotid Gland?
My husband appears to have a swollen parotid gland on the right side of his face (forward of the tragus and extending slightly below the jaw). Additionally, he has a smooth red rash that starts at tragus level and travels upward to the hairline, over to the eyebrow, and borders on his crows feet. He has a low grade fever (99.3), body aches, joint pain, fatigue, and a small itch/burn in the rash area. He saw an urgent care doctor that diagnosed him with shingles. He was prescribed Prednisone and Acyclovir. I suppose my question is if it is shingles, why is the parotid gland swollen? (His symptoms started yesterday. He is 63 yrs old.)
posted on
Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sat, 23 Aug 2014
Answered on
Mon, 25 Aug 2014
Last reviewed on
Hi. The diagnosis seems right however, you should keep a close watch. If there is continued fever then you might need to add another antibiotic to counter secondary bacterial infection. Once five days of treatment are over I would advise you to see your doctor again. Take care and feel free to ask any more clarifications if you have. Take care. Dr Rishi, New Delhi, India.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Aciclovir
Loading Online Doctors....