Dry Eyes and Mouth

Okay.

When a person has dry mouth and swelling on one side, an obstructed salivary gland is a real possibility. The most common cause of obstruction is a stone (much like a kidney stone or gallstone), but there are other possibilities. An infection -- usually bacterial -- can also cause swelling on one side, and bacteria can complicate an obstruction.

Swelling in one parotid gland is a reason to see your doctor sooner than later. Understanding the cause is critical so that you can get prompt, appropriate treatment.

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Date Last Reviewed: 6/1/2006 Date Last Modified: 5/25/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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