What can cause the ranula to inflame?

Several factors can cause the ranula to inflame and become painful:

1. Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can affect the salivary glands and ducts, leading to inflammation and swelling of the ranula. Common culprits include bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or viruses like mumps.

2. Trauma: Physical injury to the area surrounding the ranula, such as a blow to the face or dental procedures, can cause inflammation and aggravate the ranula.

3. Obstruction: Blockage of the salivary duct opening due to scarring, inflammation, or tumors can impair saliva drainage and cause the ranula to enlarge and become inflamed.

4. Autoimmune disorders: In some cases, autoimmune conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, which affects the salivary glands, can lead to swelling and inflammation of the ranula.

5. Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body, including the salivary glands and ducts, potentially leading to inflammation of the ranula.

6. Idiopathic causes: In some cases, the cause of ranula inflammation may not be identified, and it is termed idiopathic.