Lori
I found one in my cheek many years ago, my doctor at that time told me it was nothing to worry about which it wasn't and still isn't. Since then I've had swelling (occassionally after eating) that would occur, the swelling goes down within a few hours. This usually occurs if I'm dehydrated. Through other doctors visits I was told it was cysts in my salivitory ducts. The doctor who finally diagnosed it advised me to put heat on it and massage it to the opening of the duct which is away from the ear towards the mouth. I have no idea if this is the same thing that you have but you might ask your doctor about it. If it's the same thing it's not life threatening.