Mumps is an infectious disease caused by the paramyxovirus that causes swelling around the jaw. To treat mumps, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications or pain relievers. Apart from medications, some home remedies can help with mumps.
Natural remedies for mumps
A mumps infection is a viral infection that resolves on its own. It is resistant to certain antiviral treatments. While the infection may resolve without any specific treatment, mumps can lead to complications if not treated properly. Aside from medical treatment, you can try home remedies.
Home remedies are generally supportive and aim to alleviate symptoms. Some natural remedies for mumps include:
1. Rest
People with mumps may feel tired and exhausted easily. The best treatment for the infection is to rest until the condition improves. Complete rest and reduced activity can greatly aid in the healing process.
2. Increase fluids
As with other viral infections, mumps can cause dehydration. This dehydration condition can be worsened by a loss of appetite, which causes you to frequently skip meals and drinks. To stay hydrated, increase your fluid intake by drinking more water or eating soup.
3. Cold compress
Mumps can cause swelling in the cheeks and jaw, which can be uncomfortable. To relieve muscle pain or swollen glands, apply a cold compress to the affected area with a cloth and ice cubes, or use an ice pack.
4. Eat foods that are easy to swallow
People with mumps may experience pain while eating. To ensure that your body receives nutrients during the healing process, eat easy-to-digest foods like porridge, oatmeal, or mashed potatoes.
5. Consume herbal foods and drinks
Herbal remedies for mumps pain include applying ginger powder to the swollen area and consuming fresh aloe vera.
6. Protect yourself and others
If you are aware that you are infected, you should avoid close contact with others to prevent transmission. Avoid sharing utensils and other items that may contain the virus. If you are around young children who have not been immunized, keep your distance to avoid transmission.
Can mumps be prevented?
Mumps is now a rare disease in some countries, thanks to the effectiveness of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine. This vaccine can be given to children aged 12–15 months, followed by a second dose at the age of 4-6 years.
Mumps can also be avoided by maintaining a clean and healthy lifestyle, such as frequently washing hands and covering one's nose or mouth when sneezing or coughing. You can reduce your risk of contracting mumps by establishing these habits as early as possible.
Mumps is an infection caused by viruses that cause swelling in the cheeks and neck. The natural treatment for mumps focuses on reducing symptoms and ensuring that the person has adequate nutrition. If your family member has mumps, you should see a doctor.
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr Nadia Opmalina