About this topic
Salivary glands make saliva. It helps keep your mouth moist. It also helps break down food as it passes through the food tube, which is called the esophagus. You have salivary glands in different parts of your mouth. There are glands found: ‚
- At the sides of your mouth in front of your ears. These are the parotid glands.
- Under your tongue. These are the sublingual glands.
- Under the jawbone. These are the submandibular glands.
Cancer happens when normal cells in the body grow out of control. Salivary gland cancer may be found in any of the glands. This is a rare kind of cancer. It may start here or have spread from some other part of the body. This kind of cancer is treated in a number of ways. They may include surgery, radiation, or drugs called chemo. ‚
What are the causes?
Doctors do not know exactly what causes cancer. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Exposure to radiation
- Family history of salivary gland cancer
- Exposure to certain metals and minerals
- Smoking tobacco or cigarettes
- Drinking beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol)
What are the main signs?
- Swelling on the side of the face, near the ears and jawbones
- Numbness or muscle weakness on the side of the face where the gland is affected
- Pain around the salivary gland
- Trouble swallowing
- Trouble opening your mouth
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may feel your jaw, neck, and throat for swollen lymph nodes. The doctor may also check your face for numbness or muscle weakness.
- You may need to have a biopsy to check if there is cancer. Your doctor may order tests like:
- X-ray
- CT or MRI scan
- PET scan
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your treatment will be based on the type of cancer cells that are found. It will also depend on the size and if the tumor has spread outside of the gland. ‚
The doctor may suggest these treatments for large tumors. ‚
- Radiation therapy ¢ ˆ ’ Kills and shrinks cancer cells using radiation
- Chemo ¢ ˆ ’ Uses one or more drugs to weaken and kill cancer cells
You may need surgery to: ‚
- Take out part or all of a gland with cancer
- Take out lymph nodes if they have cancer cells in them
- Fix areas that may have been damaged with treatment
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Eat healthy foods. Proper nutrition and healthy eating will help you recover. Ask your dietitian to help you make a balanced eating plan. Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.
- Stop smoking cigarettes.
- Avoid drinking beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) or caffeine.
- Physical activity or exercise can help with fatigue and weakness. It builds up your energy and helps strengthen your body.
- Get lots of rest and sleep. Try to take naps if needed.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Kill cancer cells
- Help with pain
- Prevent infection
- Help with side effects like upset stomach and throwing up
Will there be any other care needed?
You may need to have different kinds of therapy. This may help you with chewing or moving the muscles in your face or neck. Your doctor may also suggest you talk with a therapist about any worries or concerns. ‚
Helpful tips
Join support groups to get to know other people who have coped with the same condition. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/SalivaryGlandCancer/DetailedGuide/salivary-gland-cancer-what-is-salivary-gland-cancer ‚
American Society of Clinical Oncology ‚
http://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/salivary-gland-cancer ‚
National Cancer Institute ‚
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/salivarygland/patient ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚