Parotitis is an inflammation of one or both parotid glands. Parotitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, arthritis and diabetes among other things.

The most common viral cause of parotitis is mumps. The parotid glands may become infected with the different types of bacteria including the same one that causes tuberculosis. Chronic recurrent parotitis is a painful swelling after eating. Depending on the severity, it may require removal of the glands to relieve the condition.