Salivary Stones (Sialolithiasis) (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)
Sialolithiasis, another name for salivary stones, is a disorder where a calcified mass, also known as a salivary stone or sialolith, develops inside a salivary gland or its duct. It can affect any salivary gland, but the submandibular gland, which is positioned below the jaw, is most frequently affected. Salivary stones may result in dry mouth, difficulty opening the mouth, pain and swelling in the afflicted gland. The stone can be removed, saliva production can be increased, and any accompanying infections or inflammation can be treated.
This article covers the following topics :
Salivary stones: what are they?
Sialolithiasis, another name for salivary stone disease, is a condition where a tiny, hard mineral deposit (stone) develops in the salivary gland or duct. Saliva is created by the salivary glands and aids in the moistening and digestion of food in the mouth. Saliva can’t flow easily via a blocked salivary duct, which can result in swelling, pain, and even infection.
The submandibular gland, which is beneath the jawbone, is where salivary stones are most frequently found, but they can also develop in the parotid gland, which is near the cheek, and the sublingual gland, which is beneath the tongue. The stones’ diameter can range from a few millimeters to over a centimeter, depending on their size.
Pain and swelling in the afflicted gland are signs of salivary stone disease, especially when saliva production is encouraged by meals. Dry mouth, trouble opening the mouth, and fever if an infection develops are possible additional symptoms.
A physical examination, a review of the patient’s medical history, and imaging tests such an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to find the stone are frequently used in the diagnosis of salivary stone disease. A sialogram, a specialized x-ray that displays the salivary gland and ducts, may be used in specific circumstances.
The size and location of the stone affect how the condition of the salivary stones is treated. With more water intake and stimulation of salivation, little stones may pass on their own, but larger stones may need medical attention. Sialagogues are drugs that stimulate salivary flow and may aid in the passage of the stone as possible forms of treatment.
*Warm compresses: Heating the afflicted gland helps ease pain and swelling.
A medical professional might be able to manually expel the stone from the duct.
*Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive technique breaks up the stone with sound waves, making it easier to pass.
*Endoscopic removal: A tiny incision in the duct or gland can be utilized to see the stone and remove it using an endoscope.
*Surgical removal: The afflicted gland or duct may need to be surgically removed in situations of bigger stones or recurrent episodes of salivary stone disease.
Infection, scarring, and harm to the salivary gland or duct are possible side effects of salivary stone disease. Salivary stone recurrence is also conceivable.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene and staying hydrated are two ways to avoid salivary stone disease. Reduced risk of salivary stones may also result from abstaining from alcohol and tobacco use.
How does my body react to this?
Sialolithiasis, or the presence of salivary stones, can be painful and uncomfortable in the vicinity of the salivary gland. The gland may expand and get infected if the stone restricts the flow of saliva from the gland. Symptoms caused by this include:
1-Tenderness and pain in the afflicted area
2-Salivary gland swelling and irritation
3-Difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth
4-A dry mouth or diminished salivation
5-Pus or drainage that tastes bad coming from the afflicted gland
6-Fever and chills if there is an infection.
Rarely, salivary stones can result in an abscess, which, if left untreated, can have serious consequences. Therefore, if you have signs of salivary stone illness, it’s crucial to seek quick medical assistance.
Who is affected by sialolithiasis?
Anyone with salivary glands can get sialolithiasis, however adults are more likely to develop it than are kids. Men experience it more frequently than women do. Sialolithiasis may be more likely to occur in some persons, such as those with a history of salivary gland infections or illnesses like Sjogren’s disease that result in decreased saliva production. A diet that is high in calcium and low in water may also put people at a higher risk.
How common are stones in the saliva?
Sialoliths, often known as salivary stones, are uncommon. Depending on the community investigated, sialolithiasis may be more or less common, although it typically affects 1-3% of adults. It often affects men more frequently than women and is more prevalent in adults compared to youngsters. Although it can happen at any age, it most frequently affects persons between the ages of 30 and 60.
What sialolithiasis signs and symptoms are there?
Depending on the size, location, and degree of obstruction caused by the stone, sialolithiasis symptoms can change. Some typical signs include:
1-Discomfort or pain in the affected area due to enlargement and tenderness of the affected gland.
2-Dry mouth: A blocked gland may generate less saliva, which can cause a dry mouth and make it harder to speak or swallow.
3-Sour taste in the mouth: A blockage in the gland that collects saliva might result in a sour taste in the mouth.
4-Infection: If the gland becomes infected as a result of the blockage, symptoms like fever, chills, and pus drainage may appear.
5-Stones in the mouth: On occasion, little stones may be felt with the tongue or may be visible in the mouth.
6-Difficulty opening the mouth: In a few rare instances, the obstruction may make it difficult to fully open the mouth.
It is crucial to keep in mind that these symptoms may also be a sign of other illnesses, making a consultation with a healthcare professional necessary for an accurate diagnosis and course of treatment.
What creates stones in the saliva?
Hard, mineralized deposits that accumulate within the salivary ducts or glands are what lead to the development of salivary stones. Although the specific cause of salivary stones is unknown, some things, such as dehydration, poor oral hygiene, and underlying medical diseases such Sjogren’s syndrome, can contribute to their formation. Salivary stones can occasionally develop as a result of trauma or mouth or cheek injuries.
Is sialolithiasis spread via contact?
Sialolithiasis is not a communicable disease. It is a disease that develops when a stone forms in the salivary duct or gland and cannot be passed from one person to another.
How is sialolithiasis determined to exist?
Through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies, sialolithiasis can be identified. The doctor may feel for swelling and discomfort in the vicinity of the salivary glands during a physical examination. Inquiries about symptoms and medical background are also possible.
X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs are imaging techniques that can assist confirm the diagnosis and pinpoint the location and size of the stone. To more clearly see the gland and the stone, in some circumstances, a sialogram, a unique X-ray of the salivary gland, may be performed.
During surgery, the stone can be palpated or seen within the duct to confirm the sialolithiasis diagnosis.
What tests are available to identify sialolithiasis?
The following tests can be used to identify sialolithiasis:
1-Physical examination: A medical professional may check your mouth and neck to look for swelling, discomfort, or a lump in the salivary gland that is troubled.
2-X-ray: An X-ray can reveal the stone’s position and dimensions.
3-CT scan: A CT scan can produce fine-grained images of the salivary gland and its surroundings, assisting in locating and estimating the size of the stone.
4-Ultrasound: Using sound waves, an ultrasound creates images of the affected area that can be used to determine the size and position of the stone.
A dye is injected into the salivary gland for the sialography imaging test, which makes the salivary gland visible on X-rays. The dye aids in locating the stone and assessing the level of obstruction.
The position of the stone and the level of obstruction will determine which test is used. Which test is best for you will be decided by your doctor.
How are salivary stones managed?
The size, location, and intensity of the symptoms all affect the treatment for salivary stones. Small stones that are symptom-free may not need any medical attention and may leave the duct on their own. The following remedies may be suggested in various situations:
1-Sialendoscopy: This minimally invasive method involves viewing the salivary gland ducts with an endoscope and removing the stone. A local anesthetic may be used.
2-Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses high-frequency sound waves to smash the stone into smaller fragments that can exit the duct on their own.
3-Surgery: To remove the stone and, in some situations, the salivary gland, surgery may be necessary if the stone is extremely large or there are complications.
4-Medicines: To treat pain and inflammation, doctors may prescribe painkillers, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
If you think you may have a salivary stone or are experiencing symptoms that could indicate you do, it is imperative that you see a doctor or dentist.
How may I lower my chance of developing sialolithiasis?
Sialolithiasis cannot be completely avoided, but there are things you may do to lower your risk, such as:
1-Maintaining hydration helps to keep saliva flowing and lowers the chance of blockages.
2-Maintain proper oral hygiene: Flossing, using mouthwash, and brushing your teeth twice a day can all assist to lessen the accumulation of germs and plaque in the mouth that can result in the formation of salivary stones.
3-Avoid smoking: Smoking should be avoided or stopped altogether since it might contribute to the development of salivary stones.
4-Avoid acidic or sugary foods because they can make saliva more acidic and lead to the development of salivary stones.
5-Have routine dental examinations: Routine dental examinations can assist in early detection of any potential oral health issues, including the development of salivary stones.
When I have sialolithiasis, what can I anticipate?
The prognosis for sialolithiasis is generally favorable. Most people may pass the stone and feel better after receiving the right care. To remove the stone or a portion of the damaged salivary gland, however, surgery might be required in some circumstances.
If you think you may have a salivary stone, you should consult a doctor right away because untreated cases can result in infections, swelling, and damage to the salivary gland. Most persons with sialolithiasis are able to fully recover with quick and adequate therapy.
Is sialolithiasis reversible?
Salivary stones, also known as sialolithiasis, frequently do not disappear on their own. Nevertheless, it is efficiently treatable with a variety of therapies, such as the removal of the stone or the administration of drugs to boost saliva production and encourage stone ejection. The majority of persons with sialolithiasis can have their symptoms relieved and problems can be avoided with the right treatment. If you think you could have salivary stones, it’s crucial to speak with a medical practitioner.
If sialolithiasis is not treated, what will happen?
Sialolithiasis can cause a number of consequences if it is left untreated. The creation of an abscess, or pus-filled accumulation in the gland, may result from infection caused by the blockage of the salivary gland duct. This may result in the affected area being painful, swollen, and red. Infections can spread to other parts of the body and result in serious problems if they are not treated. Sialolithiasis can, in a small percentage of cases, also result in the growth of a salivary gland tumor. To avoid these consequences, it is crucial to get treatment for sialolithiasis.
When should I schedule a visit with my doctor?
If you suffer any salivary stone symptoms, such as discomfort, swelling, or trouble opening your mouth or swallowing, you should consult a healthcare professional. If you have a fever or pus coming from the afflicted gland, you should see a doctor right once because this could mean you have an infection that needs to be treated right away. Based on your unique situation, your healthcare professional can conduct an evaluation and suggest the best course of action.
What distinguishes sialolithiasis from sialadenitis?
The salivary glands are impacted by the related but different disorders sialadenitis and sialolithiasis.
The condition known as sialolithiasis describes the presence of a stone, or calculus, within the salivary gland’s ducts. This may obstruct the duct, resulting in inflammation, discomfort, and infection.
On the other hand, sialadenitis is an inflammation of the salivary gland that can also result in bruising, discomfort, and infection. It can be brought on by a number of things, such as an infection, dehydration, or a salivary stone blocking the duct.
Sialolithiasis and sialadenitis can have some of the same symptoms, but their underlying causes and methods of therapy can vary. Sialadenitis may be treated with antibiotics and other supportive treatments depending on the etiology, whereas sialolithiasis necessitates the removal of the stone to relieve symptoms and stop infection.