Is That Lump Near Your Jaw Serious? Understanding Parotid Swelling with Clinical Insights If you've noticed a lump near your jawline, especially just in front of your ear, you’re not alone. Many people experience parotid gland swelling without immediately knowing its cause. While some swellings are benign, others could signal more serious conditions requiring professional ENT evaluation. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about parotid swelling , from symptoms to treatment options, with insights from ENT specialists. What is the Parotid Gland and Why Does It Swell? The parotid gland s are the largest of the salivary glands, located on either side of your face near the jaw and in front of the ears. Their main function is to produce saliva, which aids in digestion and oral hygiene. Parotid swelling can occur due to various reasons—ranging from infections to tumors. The swelling may be: Unilateral or bilateral (one-sided or both-sided) ...