SUBMANDIBULAR GLAND AND DUCT STONES
WHAT YOU MIGHT FEEL
PAIN AND DISCOMFORT
Where It Hurts
The pain is typically felt under your lower jaw or along the floor of your mouth.
When It Hurts
The pain often worsens when you’re eating or drinking as the saliva that is normally produced is unable to escape the gland and accumulates to cause pain and discomfort.
SWELLING
Where You'll See It
The swelling is usually under your jaw or on the floor of your mouth.
When It Happens
Like with Parotid Duct stones, it’s often more noticeable when you eat.
DRY MOUTH
How It Feels
You’re more likely to experience a dry mouth with these types of stones, which can make eating and talking uncomfortable.
DIFFICULTY IN SWALLOWING OR SPEAKING
How Often
This is more common than with Parotid Duct stones, especially if the stone is large.
HOW IT'S DIAGNOSED
CLINICAL HISTORY
Chief Complaint
Dr Sandeep and his team begin by asking the patient about their chief complaint. Patients with submandibular gland stones may report symptoms such as pain, swelling, or discomfort in the area beneath the jaw, typically exacerbated during meals when salivary flow increases.
Symptom Duration and Progression
It’s essential to ascertain how long the patient has been experiencing these symptoms and whether they have been worsening over time. This information can provide insights into the chronicity and severity of the condition.
Pain Characteristics
Details about the pain, such as its location, intensity, and whether it radiates, are crucial. Patients may describe the pain as intermittent or constant and may provide information about any triggers.
Swallowing Difficulty
Patients may experience difficulty swallowing due to the presence of a stone obstructing the duct. The team explores the extent of this symptom and its impact on the patient’s daily life.
Recurrent Infections
Inquiring about a history of recurrent salivary gland infections can be revealing, as it suggests a chronic issue that needs addressing.
Medical History
Dr Sandeep collects information about the patient’s medical history, including any systemic illnesses or medications that could be contributing to salivary gland dysfunction.
Lifestyle and Risk Factors
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, may be linked to salivary gland issues. Dr Sandeep discusses these factors and their potential impact.
Dental and Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene and dental problems can sometimes contribute to the development of submandibular gland stones. The team asks about recent dental procedures and oral care practices.
Previous Episodes
Patients with a history of submandibular gland stones may provide valuable information about prior episodes, including any treatments they received and their outcomes.
Psychosocial Impact
Dr Sandeep and his team also consider the psychosocial impact of the condition, as chronic pain and discomfort can affect a patient’s quality of life.
By delving into these aspects of the patient’s history, Dr Sandeep Uppal and his team create a comprehensive clinical picture. This detailed history helps guide further diagnostic tests and treatment decisions, ensuring that patients receive tailored and effective care for submandibular gland stones at The ENT Clinic in the UK.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Dr Sandeep will focus on feeling under your jaw and the floor of your mouth, possibly asking you to lift your tongue for a more thorough check. He will look for any sign of the stone at the opening of the submandibular gland duct, where it might appear as a swelling. He will also palpate the floor of the mouth to determine the number of stones and their position. He will also feel the neck for any swelling of the submandibular gland.
IMAGING
An ultrasound is often the first imaging test, but a CT scan could be used for a more detailed view, especially if you have multiple stones or recurrent symptoms.
LAB TESTS
Blood tests may be conducted to rule out any underlying infections or systemic conditions contributing to the symptoms.
By understanding the specific symptoms and diagnostic steps for each type of salivary gland stone, you’re better equipped to work with Dr Sandeep Uppal and his team for effective treatment. Their expert care ensures you receive the most comprehensive and personalised management plan for your condition.
TREATMENT OF SUBMANDIBULAR DUCT STONES
The treatment of submandibular gland duct stones involves a tailored approach that considers the size and location of the stone, the patient’s overall health, and their individual preferences. Here are the primary treatment options for submandibular gland stones:
CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT
Small stones that do not cause significant symptoms may be managed conservatively.
Salivary Gland Massage
Patients are taught how to massage the affected gland to encourage the stone’s movement towards the duct’s opening, facilitating its removal. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, and massage the gland to promote saliva flow.
Sialogogues
Medications known as Sialogogues, such as sour candies or drugs that stimulate saliva production, may be prescribed to help flush out smaller stones.
Antibiotics
If the stone has caused an infection, antibiotic therapy may be prescribed to treat the infection before proceeding with stone removal.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up salivary gland stones. It is typically reserved for smaller stones that are amenable to fragmentation.
Surgery
SIALENDOSCOPY AND STONE RETRIEVAL
Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a thin, flexible endoscope is inserted into the salivary duct. Dr Sandeep and his team can visualize the stone and use tiny instruments to remove it or break it into smaller pieces.
DUCT DILATION
For larger stones or those deeply embedded in the duct, duct dilation may be performed. This involves enlarging the duct’s opening to facilitate stone removal.
SURGICAL REMOVAL
In cases where other methods are not feasible or effective, surgical removal of the stone and potentially the affected gland (Submandibular gland and duct removal) may be necessary. Dr Sandeep ensures that this option is only considered when conservative and minimally invasive methods have been exhausted.
FOLLOW-UP CARE
After treatment, patients are closely monitored to ensure that the stone has been completely removed, and the gland functions optimally.
The choice of treatment depends on the specific characteristics of the stone and the patient’s overall health.
RESTORE COMFORT WITH EXPERT SUBMANDIBULAR DUCT STONE REMOVAL
Take the first step towards relief from discomfort caused by submandibular duct stones with our specialized services. Under the skilled hands of Dr Sandeep Uppal, experience a seamless and precise removal procedure that not only alleviates pain but also restores the natural function of your salivary glands.
Our approach is tailored to ensure minimal invasiveness and optimal recovery, providing you with a clear path to improved well-being. Don’t let salivary stones disrupt your quality of life. Contact us to schedule a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Your comfort and health are our utmost priorities. Begin your journey back to ease and normalcy today!