Seeking Additional Medical Insight Ahead of Surgery
Hello! I’m reaching out with a medical inquiry. Currently, I’m consulting a specialist regarding salivary gland stones on my left side. The discomfort began around three years ago near my ear. After undergoing a CT scan with contrast, it was determined that there's a stone that may be lodged in a duct of my salivary gland. At last, I found a physician willing to address the issue, and I have surgery scheduled for Friday aimed at removing the stone. However, I recently underwent another CT scan to check if there were any changes prior to the procedure, and it turns out that I now have multiple stones in the same salivary gland. It appears that a parotidectomy might be my only viable option at this point. Am I making an unwise choice? It seems that options are limited since it's uncommon to have multiple stones, rather than just one. Additionally, I have been tested for Sjögren's syndrome, and the results were negative. For context, I’m 25 years old, living in California. I do not have any other medical conditions, stand about 5 feet 5 inches tall, and weigh approximately 185 pounds. I don’t smoke or drink, and the only supplement I take is a multivitamin. Thank you for your assistance! ❤️
Answers (1)
9/9/2025, 2:40:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you are actively seeking information before your surgery, especially given the new findings regarding multiple stones in your salivary gland. Your concerns about the surgical options are valid, and I’m here to provide you with clear information and guidance.
Main Points:
- Surgery May Be Necessary: A parotidectomy, although more involved than removing a single stone, is often recommended when multiple stones are present, especially if they cause significant pain or risk recurring infections.
- Understanding Your Condition: The diagnosis of multiple stones can indeed complicate treatment, but it is not uncommon and can often be managed effectively with surgery.
- Addressing Your Options: While you might feel uncertain about whether the surgical choice is wise, it seems appropriate given your situation and the symptoms you've described.
Explanation:
Salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis) can prevent saliva from draining, causing pain and swelling in the gland, which sometimes becomes chronic as you've experienced. While many people have a single stone, it's not unheard of to have multiple stones, especially in certain scenarios. A parotidectomy is a more extensive approach, which involves removing the entire gland. While this may sound daunting, it can eliminate the source of recurring pain and discomfort, particularly when conservative measures have failed.
The absence of Sjögren's syndrome is a significant finding and means your symptoms are less likely to be related to an autoimmune condition. Therefore, addressing the stones surgically appears to be a suitable next step in managing your discomfort and preventing further complications.
Next Steps:
- Prepare for Surgery: Follow any pre-operative instructions from your physician, including dietary restrictions or medication adjustments.
- Communicate Clearly: Make a list of questions or concerns to discuss with your surgeon before the procedure to ensure you understand the risks, benefits, and what to expect during recovery.
- Post-Operative Care: Plan for recovery by arranging help at home for the first few days post-surgery, when swelling and discomfort are most likely.
- Follow-Up: After surgery, monitor for any signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding, fever, or inability to eat due to pain, and communicate these to your healthcare provider.
Remember, your healthcare team can provide the best personalized advice tailored to your specific health needs and situation. You're taking a proactive approach in seeking clarity, which is very important for your upcoming treatment. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to ask! ❤️
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