When you notice your child’s cheek swelling up like a chipmunk’s, it’s usually not just a random puff. It’s most likely an otok slinné žlázy, zánět slinných žláz, často způsobený virovou infekcí, která se projevuje nafouknutím pod ušima nebo pod čelistí. Also known as parotitida, it’s the body’s reaction to a common childhood virus — and it’s not the same as zarděnky, even though many parents mix them up. This swelling isn’t just ugly — it can be painful, make chewing hard, and sometimes come with fever or loss of appetite.
Most often, it’s caused by the mumps virus, which targets the parotitida, nejčastější příčina otoku slinné žlázy u dětí, která se přenáší kapénkami a je velmi nakažlivá. But it can also be triggered by other viruses, blocked salivary ducts, or even minor infections in the mouth. The key thing to remember: zarděnky, nezpůsobují otok slinných žláz — to je běžná mylná představa. If your child has a rash and swollen cheeks, it’s probably not zarděnky. It’s likely mumps — or another virus.
What should you do? First, don’t panic. Most cases get better on their own in a week. Offer cool drinks, soft foods, and avoid sour or acidic stuff that makes saliva flow and hurts. Keep your child home — they’re contagious before the swelling even shows up. If the fever spikes above 39°C, if your child can’t swallow, or if one side swells suddenly with redness and pus, see a doctor. That could mean a bacterial infection, and that needs antibiotics.
And here’s the good news: thanks to the MMR vaccine, mumps is rare now. Two doses of MMR give over 90% protection. If your child hasn’t had both shots, this is the perfect time to ask your pediatrician about catching up. Vaccination doesn’t just protect your child — it protects the whole classroom.
Below you’ll find real-life guides from parents and doctors who’ve been there: how to tell if it’s just a swollen gland or something worse, how to ease the pain without meds, when to skip school, and why some kids get it twice (yes, it happens). All practical. All clear. No fluff.