What did we do before information was so easily available on the Internet? It can be overwhelming, but also a blessing. It has only been in the last few days that I wanted to learn more about what is about to happen and also the about the recovery process.
Searching for pictures can be a bit daunting. You will see things you hope to never see again. You will wonder how a growth could become so giant before something is done. You start to think that this itty bitty bump on your neck is hardly worth the effort. But, in the end, my research helped me understand that I'm on the right path to restoring my health.
In case you don't want to look on your own, I found a not entirely gross picture to illustrate the location of the Parotid Gland. There are actually a pair of glands located in front of and below each ear. Each gland has a long thin duct that runs into your mouth. There are also a couple of other salivary glands located below your tongue. That would be another blog.
Basically, the job of the Parotid (rhymes with Carotid) is to make saliva to help with chewing and swallowing. It is also the gland most associated with the chipmunk cheeks of Mumps.
There are various things that can go wrong with the gland. Naturally, the first time you notice a lump your brain goes full speed to... OMG! I have a tumor I'm gong to die. Your brain doesn't? Hmmm. Ok... moving on.
While tumors are often the lump you feel, luckily cancerous tumors in this region are rare. There are various types of tumors or other growths possible. Additionally, you might experience issues with the Parotid duct. Infection can cause the duct to narrow, or you may develop a stone in or near the duct preventing the flow of saliva. Sometimes the treatment is quite simple and then there is Lombard Street. Welcome to my trip.
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