Hi..
Sudden swelling of the side of neck especially when you are eating something looks like an obstructed duct of submandibular
salivary gland that is present under the jaw..
Swelling under the jaw just after eating is clear indication of obstructed duct as when there is obstruction in the duct of the salivary gland due to formation of crystalline stones known as Sialoliths from the minerals present in saliva the duct is blocked..
It does not look like
lymph node swelling or
allergy as it occurs especially while chewing..
When saliva flow increases suddenly when we start eating and it cannot flow into the mouth there is backflow of saliva into the gland and it swells..
As the salivation gradually reduced and also some saliva seeps through narrow spaces left in the ducts there is reduced swelling..
You should consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated and he can do a thorough clinical evaluation, although as you are pregnant x rays cannot be taken..
If it is suspected to be due to stone formation you can be advised to suck tart candies as at times the stones can flush out with heavy saliva flow..
Superficial stones can however be pushed manually towards the duct orifice and can be removed..
Deeper stones needs surgical removal..
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Honey Arora,
Dentist