# Why Do Salivary Glands Swell?

> Why salivary glands swell — stones, infections such as mumps, tumours, cysts and Sjögren’s syndrome — explained by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız.

Source: https://www.merichafizhealthtourism.com/blog/why-do-salivary-glands-swell/  
Updated: 2026-10-19

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Author: Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız · Published: 10 November 2025 · Last reviewed: 14 October 2026

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Many different problems can prevent saliva from draining by inhibiting the function of the salivary glands or by blocking the ducts. This causes the salivary glands to swell.

Here are the common causes of swelling of the salivary gland:

One of the most common causes of swollen salivary glands is salivary stones. These stones are essentially crystallized deposits of saliva. These stones can sometimes block saliva flow, causing the salivary glands to swell.

Secondly, swelling of the salivary glands can also be caused by infections caused by various viruses and bacteria. Mumps is the most well-known example of these infections.

Thirdly, benign or malignant tumors can also cause swelling in the salivary gland.

Fourthly, cysts that are congenital or develop after infection or trauma can also cause swelling in the salivary glands.

Fifth, autoimmune diseases that cause the body to attack itself, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can also cause swelling of the salivary gland.

Therefore, treatment for swollen salivary glands varies depending on the cause. To determine the cause, an ear and nose examination is essential, followed by further tests to address the underlying cause.

## References

1. Cheng AG. Salivary Gland Disorders. MSD Manual Consumer Version. 2026. Available from: [msdmanuals.com/home/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/mouth-and-throat-disorders/salivary-gland-disorders](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/ear-nose-and-throat-disorders/mouth-and-throat-disorders/salivary-gland-disorders) \[cited 2026 Oct 14\].
2. American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Salivary Gland Disorders. ENT Health. 2019. Available from: [enthealth.org/conditions/salivary-gland-disorders](https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/salivary-gland-disorders/) \[cited 2026 Oct 14\].
3. Ng SK, Vlantis AC. Management approach of salivary gland swellings. Hong Kong Pract. 2007;29(1):10‑15. Available from: [hkcfp.org.hk/Upload/HK\_Practitioner/2007/hkp2007vol29jan/update\_article\_2.html](https://hkcfp.org.hk/Upload/HK_Practitioner/2007/hkp2007vol29jan/update_article_2.html) \[cited 2026 Oct 14\].

Written by **Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız** ENT & Head–Neck Surgeon · contracted practice [View practice →](https://www.merichafizhealthtourism.com/network/prof-dr-aysenur-meric-hafiz/)

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