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day or two. The swelling is due to an inflammation of a gland,
known as the parotid salivary gland, which is situated on each side
of the neck just below the ear. The swelling causes great
inconvenience to patients, especially in attempting to take food, for
it is difficult to open the mouth when the disease is at all severe.
There may not be much pain, but there is an unpleasant feeling and
tightness about the neck. Earache, with inflammation of the
interior of the ear may be present. In very severe cases the fever is
very high and the patient may even be delirious. Various
complications may arise in the course of the disease which may
either lead to a fatal result or much subsequent ill-health. The
disease is one in which relapses are of frequent occurrence.