TMJ neck pain: Causes, treatment, and prevention

Many people with temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders report pain in the jaw, but it can also cause a person to experience neck pain.

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMD) is the term for several conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. People may also call them TMJ disorders.

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint. This is the name for the two joints on either side of the jaw.

This article looks at whether pain associated with TMJ disorders can affect the neck. It also discusses how to treat the pain and how to prevent it.

TMJ disorders can cause a person to experience pain that affects the face, jaw, or neck. Up to 70% of people diagnosed with a TMD report neck pain as a symptom.

People will typically experience muscle tenderness and muscle pain in the cervical spine area. The cervical spine is the neck region of the spine.

Doctors usually recommend more conservative treatments.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), these include:

• eating soft foods
• applying heat or cold to the painful site
• avoiding extreme jaw movements
• avoiding nail biting, using chewing gum, or clenching the jaw
• learning and practicing jaw stretching and relaxing exercises
• using over-the-counter pain medicines or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
• participating in behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy or biofeedback
• massaging the neck muscles

According to MouthHealthy, doctors may recommend medications, including anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants.

A person can also try complementary treatments, such as acupuncture or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENs). However, there appears to be limited evidence to suggest that these can help TMDs.

If these treatments are not effective, a doctor may recommend other forms of treatment.

Intraoral appliances

Intraoral appliances are devices that a person places directly inside the mouth. Other names include nightguards, splints, or stabilization appliances.

The NIDCR notes that evidence suggesting that there is limited evidence to suggest these are effective at treating TMD pain.

If a doctor recommends that someone use one of these, people should ensure that it is not designed to change their bite permanently.

People should also stop using them and consult a dentist or doctor if pain develops.

Botox

Botox involves injecting botulinum toxin Type A into the muscles needed for chewing. However, there is limited evidence to suggest the efficacy of Botox as a treatment for TMD.

Surgery

Experts suggest that people should avoid treatments involving surgery or that make permanent changes to the jaw or teeth, as there is not enough supporting evidence to suggest that these treatments work.

If conservative treatments have not worked, surgery may be an option for some people. This surgery permanently changes a person’s joints. This is why doctors do not recommend it often.

The way to prevent TMJ neck pain is by aiming to prevent TMJ disorders in general.

A person may wish to:

• wear a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding
• regularly exercise and stretch to help strengthen muscles in the neck and jaw area
• maintain good posture
• have regular physical therapy
• avoid clenching the jaw
• try to stop nail biting
• avoid chewing gum

Other symptoms that a person may experience alongside neck pain include:

• pain in the jaw joint
• pain in the muscles responsible for chewing
• pain in other areas of the face
• hearing loss
• dizziness
• ringing in the ears
• ear pain
• misalignment of the teeth
• clicking, grating, or popping causing pain when opening or closing the mouth
• limited jaw movement or locking
• grinding of teeth

Some people may experience all the above symptoms, whereas others may only experience some.

There is currently no standard test to diagnose a TMJ disorder. Therefore, it can be difficult to receive a diagnosis. However, people should speak with a doctor if they have pain that does not resolve using home remedies and treatments.

Doctors may refer people to a physical therapist who can design a bespoke exercise plan for them to follow to improve the flexibility and strength of the jaw.

People should contact a doctor if they have experienced trauma to their jaw or surrounding areas that seem to have caused the pain.

Additionally, if any of the following symptoms occur, people should consider these ‘red flags’ according to a 2018 article:

• inability to open the mouth
• persistent pain
• worsening pain
• tinnitus
• difficulty balancing
• asymmetrical swelling of the jaw or neck
• hearing loss
• weight loss

Some people with TMDs find that their symptoms resolve without treatment.

If a person needs treatment, experts usually recommend that this treatment be conservative and reversible. This helps resolve TMDs in most people.

Neck pain is a common symptom of TMDs and can often cause people a lot of discomfort.

Lifestyle changes and conservative treatment is usually enough to remedy this pain.

In more severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery, but it is important to remember that this is not reversible and can sometimes be ineffective or even worsen the problem.

Causes and how to relieve tension

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A tight jaw can result from stress, anxiety, inflammation, or injury. Overexerting the jaw — by chewing too much, for example — can also cause muscle tightness.

The joint of the jaw, also called the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is a ball-and-socket joint similar to that in the shoulder. The surrounding muscles control movements, such as opening and closing the mouth, chewing, and yawning.

Depending on the cause, a person may experience jaw tightness on the left, right, or both sides of the jaw. It may come on suddenly or gradually and can last for long periods. The tightness may also occur with jaw pain.

A person can often loosen the jaw muscles with exercises, stress relief techniques, or by using a mouthguard.

In this article, we look at the causes of a tight jaw and ways to relieve TMJ tightness and pain.

Share on PinterestStress or anxiety can cause the muscles in the jaw to tighten.

Stress and anxiety are common causes of muscle tension. A person may clench their jaw or grind their teeth without noticing it, when stressed, and over time this can cause the muscles to tighten up.

Stress or anxiety can also cause a person to clench their fists or lead to tension in the shoulder and neck muscles.

If anxiety or stress are getting in the way of daily life, talk to a doctor about the best treatments. Practicing natural ways to relieve stress or looking into ways to treat anxiety can help.

TMJ disorders affect the joint that connects the skull and the lower jaw, as well as the surrounding muscles.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, an estimated 10 million people in the United States experience at least one TMJ disorder.

TMJ disorders can occur due to:

• physical injury
• grinding or clenching the teeth
• inflammation from infections or autoimmune diseases

The symptoms of TMJ disorders vary, depending on the cause and severity of the condition and can include:

• pain or tenderness of the jaw, ear, face, or neck
• difficulty chewing or opening the jaw
• a popping or clicking sound when moving the jaw
• headaches

Read about jaw exercises for TMJ here.

Tetanus is a bacterial infection caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria. C. tetani produces toxins that cause painful muscle contractions in the neck and jaw.

Depending on the severity of the infection, it can limit a person’s ability to open their mouth and swallow.

Fortunately, vaccines can help prevent tetanus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide the following vaccine recommendations based on age:

• the DTaP vaccine for children and infants between the ages of 2 months and 6 years
• the Tdap booster vaccine for adolescents aged 11–12 years
• the Td vaccine every 10 years for adults

Share on PinterestA mouthguard can help prevent teeth grinding, a common cause of jaw tightness.

Bruxism is the medical term for unconsciously clenching or grinding the teeth. It can occur while waking or sleeping.

Chronic stress or anxiety can cause a person to inadvertently grind their teeth or clench their jaw. Certain medications and nervous system disorders can also cause bruxism.

Bruxism symptoms can include:

• stiffness or tenderness in the jaw and the surrounding muscles
• painful, tender, teeth
• a popping or clicking of the temporomandibular joint
• headaches on the sides of the head

In some cases, bruxism can cause teeth to fracture.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. Approximately 50% of people who have RA also experience TMJ symptoms.

RA can cause the following symptoms:

• tightness of the jaw
• joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness
• a low-grade fever
• unintended weight loss
• bumps under the skin of the joints, such as the finger knuckles and the elbow

According to the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition that primarily affects the joints. OA usually develops in people over the age of 65.

Although OA typically occurs in the hands, knees, and hips, it can affect the jaw as well.

A person can relieve tightness and pain in the jaw with the following methods:

Jaw joint stretches

Jaw joint stretches can help increase the jaw’s range of motion and reduce TMJ symptoms.

Try the following jaw stretches:

Relaxed jaw stretch

• Rest the tip of the tongue behind the upper front teeth.
• Lower the bottom jaw so that the lower teeth come away from the upper teeth.
• Remember to keep the jaw muscle relaxed.

Goldfish exercise

• Press the tongue against the roof of the mouth.
• Place one index finger on the TMJ and the other on the chin.
• Lower the bottom jaw as far possible.
• Close the mouth and repeat.

Resistance mouth opening

• Hold the tip of the chin in the right hand with the thumb resting under the chin and the index finger wrapped around the front.
• Softly push the right hand against the jaw.
• Slowly start to open the jaw while continuing to push against the chin.
• Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly close the mouth.

Dietary changes

A person who has a tight jaw may find it easier to eat soft foods. These put less pressure on the jaw, giving it time to heal.

Some soft foods to consider include:

• apple sauce
• tofu
• yogurt
• smoothies and juices

Mouthguards

A mouthguard can help relieve pressure on the jaw and prevent people from grinding or clenching their teeth.

Certain mouthguards can also help reposition a misaligned jaw joint.

Shortwave diathermy

Shortwave diathermy involves using high-frequency electromagnetic energy waves to treat pain and inflammation in the body.

Other treatments

Additional treatments for tight jaw include:

• hot and cold compresses.
• corticosteroid injections
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• prescription-strength muscle relaxers or pain relievers
• antidepressants
• acupuncture

Learn more about heat and cold treatment here.

Share on PinterestAn X-ray can help diagnose inflammation and structural abnormalities in the jaw.

Several health conditions can cause tightness in the jaw. A doctor or dentist will review a person’s medical history and ask about ongoing symptoms.

Imaging tests can help diagnose inflammation and structural abnormalities that can cause tightness in the jaw. Some of these tests include:

• X-rays
• CT scans
• MRI scans

A person experiencing any of the following symptoms should consult a doctor:

• severe pain in the jaw that worsens with movement or while chewing
• difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
• headaches that interfere with daily activities

People can use the following strategies to prevent tightness and pain in the jaw:

• reduce stress to avoid bruxism
• avoid sticky foods that require excessive chewing, such as gum, taffy, and caramel
• avoid hard foods that put pressure on the jaw, such as nuts, croutons, and ice chips

Tightness in the jaw muscles or joint is common. Stress, anxiety, injury, and inflammation can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

Having a tight jaw may interfere with a person’s ability to eat or speak. Choosing soft foods, performing jaw exercises, and wearing a mouthguard can help loosen a tight jaw.

Consider speaking with a doctor if symptoms get worse or interfere with daily activities.

Some of the home remedies listed in this article are available for purchase online.

• Shop for mouthguards.
• Shop for heating pads.
• Shop for cooling packs.
• Shop for aspirin.
• Shop for ibuprofen.

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Pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck: causes and treatments

Content

• 1 Pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck
  • jaws there are
  • 1.3 What causes pain in the back of the head and how to eliminate it
  • 1.4 What can cause pain in the neck and how to treat it
  • 1.5 The relationship between pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck
  • regions
  • 1. 7 Treatment of pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck without drugs
  • 1.8 Traditional methods of treating pain in the indicated areas
  • 1.9 Medicines recommended for pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck
  • 1.10 Types of massage, helping to relieve pain
  • 1.11 When to see a doctor for pain in these areas
  • 1.12 Related videos:

Pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck can be due to various causes, from toothache to damage to the cervical vertebrae. It is important to see a doctor to determine the exact cause and treatment. Learn more about the symptoms and possible causes of pain in these areas of the body.

Pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck is a common condition that can lead to serious consequences if left unattended. Often, the disease manifests itself in the form of pain, which can be intermittent or constant, and is accompanied by short-term headaches and other symptoms.

One of the most common causes of pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck is a parotid pustular infection. Also, a disease of the auditory nerve and neuralgia of the facial nerve can be a problem. Often the disease develops against the background of colds and infectious diseases.

Treatment of pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck depends on its cause. Some cases require urgent medical attention, while others can be treated at home. It is necessary to consult a specialist to get the correct diagnosis and choose the most effective therapy.

It is important to note that precautions must be taken to avoid pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck. Incorporating proper nutrition and exercise into your diet, as well as reducing stress and practicing good hygiene, will help prevent these pains from occurring.

Causes of pain in the ear

Pain in the ear is often a symptom of diseases of the ear, middle ear and pelvis. The most common causes of pain in the ear:

• Acute respiratory viral infections that lead to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose and throat. This can spread the infection to the hearing aid and cause pain in the ear area;
• Otitis media – inflammation of the middle ear, can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Otitis can cause severe ear pain that worsens at night or when lying on your side;
• Injury to the ear, possible by impact or fall;
• An abscess behind the ear can be caused by dental or gum disease. Leads to swelling, redness and soreness in the ear area;
• Diseases of the pharynx and pharynx. Pain may radiate to the ear, such diseases may be caused by an infection or tumor;
• Nervous tension or stress can cause pain in the ear and neck area, even if there are no hearing or ear problems.

If you experience pain in the ear area, you should see a doctor to examine and determine the cause of the pain.

What causes jaw pain

Muscle spasm is the most common cause of jaw pain. It is associated with excessive muscle tension, which can occur due to stress, depression, bad habits (chewing gum, grinding teeth, etc. ) or improper position of the teeth.

Injuries to (whether mechanical or chemical) may cause jaw pain that may become permanent. They may be associated with accidents, strokes, inflammatory diseases, etc.

Arthritis and arthrosis are diseases that often cause pain in the jaw. They can develop due to age-related changes, metabolic disorders, malnutrition of the joint capsule, connective tissue diseases, etc.

Pathologies of the teeth and gums – the presence of caries, tartar, plaque and other diseases of the dentition can cause pain in the jaw and joints.

Other causes may be related to malocclusion, malnutrition, endocrine diseases, etc.

At the first sign of pain in the jaw, you should consult a dentist or general practitioner who will prescribe additional examinations and treatment.

What causes pain in the back of the head and how to eliminate it

Pain in the back of the head can be caused by various factors, such as muscle strain, spasms, torticollis, rheumatism, osteochondrosis, etc. Also, pain in the back of the head can be associated with other diseases, such as like migraines, eye and dental problems, and infections.

A variety of methods can be used to relieve neck pain. The easiest and most affordable way is massage. Apply oil on your hands and massage the back of the head in a circular motion until the muscles relax.

You can also apply hot compression by soaking a towel in hot water, wringing out and applying to the back of the head. Hot compression helps to relax muscles and relieve pain.

Another way is neck exercises. Tilt your head forward, backward, right and left and repeat this complex several times a day. This exercise will help improve blood circulation and strengthen muscles.

In any case, if the pain in the back of the head does not go away, gets worse or is accompanied by other symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor for qualified help.

What can cause neck pain and how to treat it

Neck pain is a common symptom of many diseases and conditions. The causes can be various injuries, poor posture, degenerative changes in the spine, infectious diseases, tumors, and others.

Depending on the cause, different treatment tactics are possible. If the pain is caused by an injury, it is necessary to diagnose and choose a method of fixing the neck. In case of degenerative changes in the spine, physiotherapy and massage can help.

Neck pain is caused not only by problems with the structure of the spine, but also by diseases that cause inflammation. In this case, the use of drugs, including antibiotics, may be required. In addition, the use of warming ointments and compresses can improve the condition.

Be aware that neck pain can be caused by a cardiovascular disease such as hypertension. In this case, consultation with a cardiologist and appropriate studies are required.

In order to prevent the occurrence of neck pain, it is recommended to monitor your posture, exercise to strengthen the muscles of the neck and back, limit the time spent at the computer and use a special orthopedic pillow for sleeping.

Finally, if neck pain does not go away for a long time or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor and conduct an examination in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis and determine the tactics of treatment.

Relationship between pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck

Often pains in the ear, jaw, occiput and neck are associated and can be caused by various causes. Doctors call this a symptom of the “common disease of the 21st century” – myofascial pain syndrome (MFPS).

MFPS occurs due to overexertion of the muscles of the neck and neck, which often occurs as a result of repeated sitting at the computer, uncomfortable body position during sleep, crowded chest, etc. In turn, this can lead to congestion in the body if it occurs compression of the external jugular vein or artery – this can cause pain in the ear and jaw area. Therefore, treating myofascial pain syndrome can help improve the health of the ear, jaw, back of the head, and neck.

However, it should be noted that pain in these areas can also be caused by other diseases, such as caries, inflammatory processes in the masticatory muscles, cervical spine, etc. Therefore, if pain in the ear, jaw, nape and neck is not pass, you should immediately consult a doctor.

• Symptoms that may accompany pain in the ear, jaw, occiput and neck:
• Dizziness or unsteadiness;
• Pain in one or both arms, neck, jaw, abdomen or back;
• Headaches that occur more frequently than usual;
• Decreased vision;
• Numbness or difficulty swallowing in the throat, tongue or lips.

In general, pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck can be caused by various causes and require a comprehensive approach to treatment. Do not ignore these symptoms to avoid complications. It is important to monitor your health and consult a doctor in time.

Diagnosis of the causes of pain in the indicated areas

Pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck can have a variety of causes and may require a range of diagnostic procedures to identify them.

When contacting a doctor, the patient is usually examined, including the presence of pathologies in the oral cavity and teeth, possible injuries to the face or neck. Various tests may be ordered to detect inflammation, tumors, and other changes, including:

• X-ray examination of the ear, jaw, and teeth;
• Computed tomography (CT) for a more detailed examination of the head and neck area;
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect soft tissue changes;
• Ultrasound diagnostics for examination of blood vessels and other organs in the head and neck area;
• Endoscopy for examining the condition of the mouth and throat.

Blood and urine tests may also be needed to check for inflammation and other abnormalities in the body.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of pain in these areas is best carried out as soon as possible, since many causes of these pains can have serious consequences for human health.

Treatment of pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck without drugs

Pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck can be caused not only by physical causes, but also by psychological ones. If you need to alleviate the condition before the visit to the doctor, you can try ways that are not related to drugs.

One of the easiest ways is a warm compress. To do this, you can use hot water in an airtight bottle or a heating pad. Or bend with a small towel for comfort, warm up a little with a stylish lamp and apply on a sore spot.

Massage is also a good way. The process can start from the region of the lower part of the skull towards the collar zone. It is necessary to try to apply maximum strength to the hands and fingers that produce the massage.

Another effective way to relieve pain is to calm down and relax. This can range from a simple semi-Buddhist meditation type to deep diaphragmatic relaxation. In this process, all sorts of tests like neuropleasure regulation can be very helpful.

It is easy to see that each of these methods is not associated with the use of drugs. Of course, their applicability may depend on various factors, but in general they can help alleviate the condition and relieve pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck.

Traditional methods of pain treatment in the indicated areas

Pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck can occur for various reasons. However, there are several home remedies that can help ease the pain and speed up the healing process.

One of the most popular folk remedies for reducing pain in these areas is the application of heat. Heat relieves pain and increases blood flow, which speeds up tissue healing. For example, you can apply a heating pad or hot compress to the affected area. But do not forget caution: if the disease is accompanied by a high temperature, then you should refrain from using heat.

Also, to eliminate pain in the ear, it is recommended to use propolis. It reduces inflammation and strengthens the immune system. A small piece of propolis should be placed in the ear overnight, then carefully removed.

Aromatic oils can also help with pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck. You can use lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary oils, which not only provide pain relief, but also have a calming effect.

In addition, attention should be paid to the diet. The body needs a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and calcium, which strengthen bone tissue and reduce the risk of pain in these areas. It is also helpful to consume foods containing magnesium and iodine, which improve overall health and promote a quick recovery.

Traditional methods of treating pain in the ear, jaw, neck and neck can significantly reduce pain and speed up the healing process. However, if the symptoms do not improve, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Medicines recommended for pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck

Pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck can be associated with various causes. To treat such pain, your doctor may recommend the use of the following medicines:

• Analgesics – drugs that relieve pain. In this case, drugs such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac can be used.
• Hormonal preparations – used when pain is associated with inflammation or swelling. For example, drugs such as prednisolone, dexamethasone.
• Antibiotics are drugs used when pain is caused by an infection. Appointed by a doctor after conducting the necessary research.
• Muscle relaxants – used to relieve pain if the cause is muscle spasm. For example, drugs such as tolperisone, baclofen.

Consult your doctor before taking any medicine. Self-medication can lead to aggravation of the condition and undesirable consequences.

Pain relief massages

Massage is one of the most effective ways to deal with pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck. Depending on the cause of the pain, different types of massage can be used:

• Head and neck massage – improves blood circulation and relieves muscle tension, which can be useful for trigeminal neuralgia.
• Acupressure is based on working with certain points on the human body that affect certain organs and systems. It can be used to eliminate pain associated with diseases of internal organs, such as teeth.
• Massage of the back of the neck – helps to reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation and relieve pain in osteochondrosis.

It is important to note that massage can only help relieve pain in combination with other therapies and is not a panacea. Before using it, you should consult a doctor to assess the possible effect and possible risks.

When to see a doctor for pain in these areas

Pain in the ear, jaw, back of the head and neck can be a sign of serious illness. Therefore, it is important not to postpone the visit to the doctor and contact him at the first symptoms of pain.

If the pain is acute and accompanied by a sharp increase in body temperature, then this may indicate the development of the ear and throat. Thyroid cancer can also cause neck pain.

Pain in the back of the head may be a sign of a herniated disc, damage to the spinal column, or migraine. If the pain causes discomfort, prolonged and repeated, then you should consult a doctor.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the presence of additional symptoms: visual disturbances, impaired coordination of movements, nausea and vomiting. If they are found, then contact a neurologist or therapist.

In some cases, simple treatment measures, such as pain medication or simple massage, can at least help manage the symptoms, but if the pain persists for a long time, then you should contact a specialist for qualified medical care.

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Causes of pain in the jaw

There can be many reasons why the jaw hurts. But regardless of the etiology, pain is always a symptom that indicates a problem. You should not ignore the pain syndrome, because even a banal bruise can be of varying intensity and can cause long-term consequences.

The most common cause of pain in this area is dental disease. Caries, pulpitis, abscess can cause pain of varying intensity. A number of patients experience hypersensitivity due to the nature of the enamel, professional cleaning or teeth whitening. Pain can occur not only due to diseases of the teeth, but also inflammation of the gums. This is the main reason why the jaw hurts on the right or left.

Another reason why the jaw began to hurt may be related to dental procedures. Moreover, before the treatment, there might not have been pain, as, for example, in the case of medium caries. If there was no pain before the treatment, and after the intervention the jaw aches, the patient begins to suspect the doctor of incompetence. But in some cases, pain is a variant of the norm. You can talk about complications if the sensations do not go away for several days. Pain is also observed after other procedures: removal of wisdom teeth, implantation.

Consult your dentist or periodontist if you suspect dental or gum disease. In addition, you may be examined by a surgeon or implantologist if pain occurs after a tooth extraction or implantation.

Why the jaw and temples hurt

Next to the jaw structures are the sinuses. With sinusitis, the pain spreads to the upper jaw, can be given to the eyes, ear, teeth. But besides soreness, there are other symptoms:

• Stringy discharge from the nose.
• Sensitivity of the skin near the nose, on the cheeks, under the eyes, tearing.
• Nasal congestion, difficulty breathing.
• Sore throat.
• Lethargy, general deterioration of well-being.

Sinusitis is also the cause of jaw and head pain. With this problem, contact an otolaryngologist. The doctor will identify the cause of chronic sinusitis, which can develop against the background of infectious processes, curvature of the septum, polyps, allergies, etc.

Why the jaw muscles hurt

Muscle tension is usually caused by the patient’s habit of clenching his teeth, often involuntarily. This condition is observed during stress and tension, when a person is forced to hide experiences.

Symptoms of bruxism may occur at night when the person grinds their teeth. Since the jaw does not rest, and the muscles are in constant tone, pain occurs and early abrasion of the enamel is observed. The pain extends not only to the jaw, but also to the neck, temples, face.

If you or your child grind their teeth, see a neurologist. For correction, sedatives and drugs that reduce muscle spasms can be prescribed. Mouthguards are used to protect teeth.

Causes of lower jaw pain

Lower jaw pain can be caused by bruxism or dental problems, as well as TMJ dysfunction. This joint is complex in structure and most often involved, so there may be various lesions of the parts of the TMJ. Doctors determine the cause of TMJ dysfunction through diagnostics, most often due to a ruptured disc, traumatic injury, or arthritis. The cause of joint damage can be lupus or other autoimmune diseases.

Treatment is prescribed after the diagnosis of the TMJ – first of all, X-ray, CBCT or MRI. To reduce pain, analgesics are prescribed, for relaxation – muscle relaxants. To protect the teeth from loosening and abrasion, mouthguards are selected. In some cases, surgery is required.

Why it hurts under the jaw

Pain under the jaw can appear due to inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes. But the most alarming symptoms are associated with disorders in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. With cardiac pathologies, it hurts not only in the chest: the pain affects the back, shoulders, neck, jaw. Other signs of cardiovascular disease also indicate: nausea, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, cold sweat.

If you suspect CVD, make an appointment with a cardiologist and get tested. If there is a sharp pain in the chest with a return to the jaw, call an ambulance – you may have a heart attack.

Why does my jaw hurt on one side

If you are worried about why your jaw hurts on the left side or on the right, the cause may be a unilateral dislocation. The so-called subluxations do not require reduction: the patient himself can put the jaw in place. If we are talking about a direct dislocation, independent actions are dangerous: the jaw can jam even more, more serious damage is possible, up to a fracture.

Another reason why the jaw hurts on the right side or on the left is the already mentioned dental diseases: deep caries, pulpitis, cyst. Tumors and cysts can cause displacement of the teeth if the tumor is large. Tumors are monitored: in some cases, a biopsy and surgery are required. To clarify the diagnosis, they necessarily resort to instrumental diagnostics: they do CBCT or MRI.

Why there are shooting pains

Pains resembling electric shocks occur when the trigeminal nerve is damaged. Neuralgia occurs for various reasons: due to injuries, natural aging, the proximity of the vessel, brain damage.