Hi. Thanks for the query.. From your explanation it looks like an obstructed duct of salivary gland.. Obstruction in the duct of the salivary gland occurs due to formation of crystalline stones known as Sialoliths from the minerals present in saliva causing the duct to get blocked.. It does not look like lymph node swelling as it will not subside and recur so quickly.. When saliva flow increases suddenly when we start eating and it cannot flow into the mouth there is backflow of saliva into the gland and it swells.. As the salivation gradually reduced and also some saliva seeps through narrow spaces left in the ducts there is reduced swelling.. You should consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated and he can do a thorough clinical evaluation and an x ray. If it is suspected to be due to stone formation you can be advised to suck tart candies as at times the stones can flush out with heavy saliva flow.. Superficial stones can however be pushed manually towards the duct orifice and can be removed.. Deeper stones needs surgical removal under sialoscopic guidence. Hope this helps.. Regards.