Understanding Ammai Disease: Symptoms and Treatment
Learn about Ammai disease, a traditional term often referring to chickenpox. Understand its symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options, including home care tips and when to seek medical help.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Ammai Disease, also known as Mumps, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, causing swelling and pain. While it is most common in children, adults can also contract the disease if they haven’t been vaccinated or previously infected. The good news is that with proper care and vaccination, Ammai Disease can be prevented and managed effectively.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Ammai Disease, its symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What is Ammai Disease (Mumps)?
Ammai Disease is caused by the mumps virus, which spreads through saliva or mucus from an infected person. The virus typically targets the parotid glands (salivary glands located near the ears), leading to the characteristic puffy cheeks and swollen jaw that many associate with the condition.
While most cases are mild, complications can arise, especially in adults. Understanding the symptoms early can help in managing the disease better.
Consult top Specialist
Symptoms of Ammai Disease
The signs of Ammai Disease usually appear 2-3 weeks after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Swollen, painful salivary glands (one or both sides of the face)
- Fever (often mild to moderate)
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- while chewing or swallowing
In rare cases, complications like meningitis (brain inflammation), orchitis (swollen testicles in males), or hearing loss may occur. If you or your child experience severe symptoms like high fever, stiff neck, or extreme swelling, seek medical help immediately.
How Does Ammai Disease Spread?
The mumps virus spreads easily through:
- Direct contact with an infected person’s saliva (sharing utensils, kissing).
- Respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing, or talking near others).
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
An infected person can spread the virus a few days before symptoms appear and up to five days after. This is why vaccination and hygiene are crucial in preventing outbreaks.
Who is at Risk?
The following individuals are at risk,
- Unvaccinated individuals (especially children between 5-15 years old).
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Adults who never had mumps or the vaccine.
Treatment and Home Care
Since Ammai Disease is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while the body fights the infection. Here’s what you can do:
1. Rest and Hydration
- Get plenty of rest to help your immune system recover.
- Drink fluids like water, herbal teas, or soups to stay hydrated.
2. Pain and Fever Management
- Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen to reduce fever and pain.
- Avoid aspirin in children (risk of Reye’s syndrome).
3. Soothing Swelling
- Apply a warm or cold compress to swollen areas.
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies to ease chewing.
4. Isolation to Prevent Spread
- Stay home for at least 5 days after swelling starts.
- Avoid close contact with others, especially in schools or workplaces.
When to See a Doctor?
Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks, but seek medical attention if:
- Swelling lasts longer than 7 days.
- High fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C) persists.
- Severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion occurs (signs of meningitis).
- Testicular pain or swelling develops in males.
Prevention: The Best Defense is Vaccination
The MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent Ammai Disease. Here’s what you should know:
- Children should receive two doses (first at 12-15 months, second at 4-6 years).
- Adults born after 1957 who haven’t been vaccinated should consider getting the MMR shot.
- Pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals should consult a doctor before vaccination.
Additional Preventive Measures
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils.
- Cover mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Can You Get Mumps More Than Once?
Most people develop lifelong immunity after recovering from mumps or being vaccinated. However, rare cases of reinfection can occur.
Need Help?
If you’d like to schedule a vaccination or consult a doctor, you can book an appointment easily through Apollo 24|7. Stay informed, stay protected!
Conclusion
Ammai Disease (Mumps) is a preventable illness that, while usually mild, can cause discomfort and complications if not managed properly. The best protection is vaccination, along with good hygiene practices. If you suspect you or a loved one has mumps, rest, hydration, and symptom management are key. For severe symptoms or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider.
Consult top Specialist
Consult top Specialist
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
26 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
B Ghose Foundation Doctor's Chamber, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
General Practitioner
3 Years • MD (Physician)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Consult top Specialist
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
26 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
B Ghose Foundation Doctor's Chamber, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
General Practitioner
3 Years • MD (Physician)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)