Mechanism: An increase in air pressure in the oropharynx is sufficient to enter the oral orifice of the parotid duct, with inflation of the parotid (Stensen's) duct and eventually the gland.
Persons at risk:
(1) glassblowers
(2) wind instrument musicians
(3) professional balloon blowers
(4) neurotic habit
(5) anyone who forcefully blows up the cheeks repeatedly
Clinical findings:
(1) unilateral or bilateral swelling of the parotid glands
(2) painless
(3) crepitus felt on palpation
(4) frothy and bubbly saliva which can be produced by pressing on the parotid gland
(5) dilated Stensen duct on sialography, with bubbles
(6) spontaneous regression (with reappearance on next insufflation)
Complications:
(1) infection (manifested by pain, fever, purulent discharge)
