The different treatments for mumps are similar to those for the common cold, as this is a virus that cannot typically be cured by medication. For this reason, the symptoms are treated rather than the virus itself. For example, pain relievers can be offered to help the patient feel more comfortable during recovery while bringing the fever down. Swollen glands can be treated with cold or warm compresses, while rest can help the body heal. Unfortunately, there are some complications of the mumps, in which case medication or hospitalization may be offered, such as for encephalitis, meningitis, orchitis, and pancreatitis.
One of the most common treatments for the mumps is the use of pain relievers that can be purchased from most grocery stores. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, such as naproxen and ibuprofen, are often used to help relieve pain and make the patient comfortable while the body heals. Acetaminophen is also often recommended to both relieve pain and reduce fever. Many patients report feeling the most relief when taking both an NSAID and acetaminophen at the same time, though dosage for both medicines should be adhered to in order to avoid accidental overdose.
Effective treatments for mumps should include the ability to bring down the swelling of the glands, as this is a common cause of discomfort associated with this condition. Cold compresses, such as ice packs, can help relieve swelling, while warm compresses are usually best at reducing pain. Most patients also find relief after resting for several days, though this does not require just lying in bed the entire time. Relaxing at home, including sitting or lying down while watching television or reading a book, as well as taking warm baths, can also allow the body to heal.
Though most cases of mumps are straightforward and usually go away on their own, serious complications are possible. For instance, some patients get meningitis or encephalitis, causing swelling in and around the brain. The treatments for mumps complications like these can include hospitalization and several medications. Orchitis, which is swelling of the testicles, and oophoritis, which is swelling of the ovaries, may also be caused by mumps, in which case treatment is typically pain relievers and rest. Pancreatitis is another issue that may occur, and treatments for mumps complications like this one usually include fluids and pain medication given by IV in the hospital while the body recovers from the issue.