What are the common causes of jaw pain near the ear. How can you identify the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. What are effective treatments for salivary duct stones. How to prevent myofascial pain syndrome. When should you seek medical attention for tooth abscesses. How to manage infected wisdom teeth at home. What are the risk factors for swimmer’s ear.

Understanding Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction is a common condition affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities.

What causes TMJ dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction can be triggered by various factors:

• Daily habits (e.g., teeth grinding, jaw clenching)
• Teeth misalignment
• Stress
• Trauma to the jaw
• Arthritis

Recognizing TMJ symptoms

TMJ dysfunction typically manifests as:

• Pain on one or both sides of the face
• Discomfort while chewing or yawning
• Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw
• Limited jaw movement
• Headaches
• Neck pain

Effective TMJ treatments

Most TMJ cases can be managed with conservative treatments:

1. Avoiding hard foods or excessive chewing
2. Practicing good posture
3. Implementing relaxation techniques
4. Using a custom-fitted night guard
5. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen)

With proper care, many individuals experience symptom relief within weeks.

Navigating Acute Salivary Duct Stones (Sialolithiasis)

Salivary duct stones are calcified structures that can form within the salivary glands, potentially causing discomfort and swelling.

Identifying salivary duct stones

Common symptoms include:

• Swelling on one side of the face
• Painful jaw swelling
• Spontaneous jaw pain
• Discomfort while eating

Treatment options for sialolithiasis

Treatment approaches may vary depending on the size and location of the stone:

1. Increasing fluid intake to promote saliva production
2. Gently massaging the affected gland
3. Using sialogogues to stimulate saliva flow
4. Minimally invasive procedures (e.g., sialoendoscopy)
5. Surgical removal for larger stones

Is early intervention important for salivary duct stones? Absolutely. Prompt treatment can prevent complications and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Unraveling Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome, also known as chronic myofascial pain (CMP), is a condition characterized by persistent muscle pain and tenderness.

Understanding the causes of myofascial pain

Several factors can contribute to the development of myofascial pain syndrome:

• Muscle overuse from sports or repetitive motions
• Poor posture
• Chronic stress
• Physical trauma
• Lack of exercise

Recognizing myofascial pain symptoms

Key indicators of myofascial pain syndrome include:

• Deep, aching muscle pain
• Presence of trigger points (tender muscle knots)
• Pain that worsens with pressure
• Sleep disturbances due to discomfort
• Referred pain patterns

Effective management strategies

Treatment for myofascial pain syndrome often involves a multifaceted approach:

1. Physical therapy exercises
2. Trigger point injections
3. Pain medications
4. Acupuncture
5. Stress reduction techniques
6. Improving sleep hygiene

Can lifestyle changes help prevent myofascial pain syndrome? Indeed, maintaining good posture, regular exercise, and stress management can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition.

Addressing Tooth Abscesses and Infections

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to bacterial infection, often causing severe pain and potential complications if left untreated.

Identifying tooth abscess symptoms

Common signs of a tooth abscess include:

• Severe, persistent tooth or jaw pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Swollen jaw or face
• Fever
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Treatment options for tooth abscesses

Addressing a tooth abscess typically involves:

1. Draining the abscess
2. Root canal treatment
3. Tooth extraction (in severe cases)
4. Antibiotics to clear the infection
5. Pain management

Why is prompt treatment crucial for tooth abscesses? Immediate attention is essential to prevent the spread of infection to surrounding tissues and potentially life-threatening complications.

Managing Infected Wisdom Teeth (Pericoronitis)

Pericoronitis is an infection that occurs around partially erupted wisdom teeth, often causing significant discomfort and potential complications.

Understanding pericoronitis symptoms

Key indicators of infected wisdom teeth include:

• Moderate to severe tooth pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Swollen gum tissue around the affected tooth
• Bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Limited jaw opening

Home management techniques

While professional treatment is often necessary, some home remedies can provide temporary relief:

1. Saltwater rinses
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers
3. Careful cleaning around the affected area
4. Applying a cold compress to reduce swelling
5. Avoiding irritating foods and beverages

When should you seek professional help for infected wisdom teeth? If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a dentist or oral surgeon for proper evaluation and treatment.

Exploring Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by water exposure and bacterial growth.

Identifying swimmer’s ear symptoms

Common signs of otitis externa include:

• Ear pain that worsens when touching the outer ear
• Itching inside the ear canal
• Redness and swelling
• Drainage of clear or pus-like fluid
• Muffled hearing

Risk factors and prevention

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing swimmer’s ear:

• Frequent swimming or water exposure
• Use of ear plugs or hearing aids
• Narrow ear canals
• Excessive ear cleaning with cotton swabs
• Skin conditions affecting the ear canal

How can swimmer’s ear be prevented? Preventive measures include:

1. Thoroughly drying ears after swimming or bathing
2. Using ear drops after water exposure
3. Avoiding insertion of foreign objects into the ear canal
4. Protecting ears from irritants and chemicals
5. Maintaining proper ear hygiene

Investigating Other Causes of Jaw Pain Near the Ear

While TMJ dysfunction, tooth infections, and ear-related issues are common culprits, several other conditions can cause jaw pain near the ear.

Exploring additional causes

Other potential sources of jaw pain include:

• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Parotid gland disorders
• Referred pain from neck or shoulder issues
• Jaw fractures or dislocations
• Dental problems (e.g., impacted teeth, cavities)

When to seek medical attention

Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation:

• Severe, persistent pain
• Fever accompanied by jaw pain
• Sudden swelling or facial asymmetry
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Changes in bite or jaw alignment

Why is accurate diagnosis crucial for jaw pain near the ear? Proper identification of the underlying cause ensures appropriate treatment and prevents potential complications.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Jaw Pain

While medical interventions are often necessary, incorporating holistic strategies can complement traditional treatments and promote overall jaw health.

Lifestyle modifications

Simple changes in daily habits can significantly impact jaw pain:

• Practicing stress-reduction techniques
• Maintaining proper posture
• Avoiding excessive gum chewing
• Using a supportive pillow while sleeping
• Incorporating jaw exercises and stretches

Complementary therapies

Some individuals find relief through alternative approaches:

1. Acupuncture
2. Massage therapy
3. Biofeedback
4. Herbal remedies (e.g., arnica, turmeric)
5. Mindfulness meditation

Can dietary changes influence jaw pain? In some cases, yes. Avoiding hard, chewy foods and incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients may help alleviate symptoms.

Understanding the various causes of jaw pain near the ear and implementing appropriate management strategies can significantly improve quality of life for those affected. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking proper medical attention, and adopting holistic approaches, individuals can effectively address jaw pain and prevent future complications. Remember, persistent or severe jaw pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

10 Causes of Right and Left Sided Jaw Pain

Temporomandibular joint (tmj) dysfunction disorder

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction is often caused by a variety of factors, including daily habits, your teeth alignment, and even stress. It usually affects one side of the jaw, but in some people it can affect both sides. People with TMJ dysfunction will typically experience pain on one side of the face that is worse with chewing, yawning, or other movements of the jaw. With some simple changes in your daily habits and other at-home treatments, most people with TMJ dysfunction will experience relief of their symptoms within weeks.

Treatment for temporomandibular joint dysfunction usually includes avoiding eating hard foods or foods that require a lot of chewing. Good posture and relaxation techniques may help relieve tension in the muscles that connect to your temporomandibular joint. In people who clench or grind their teeth, a mouth guard worn at night (and fitted by your dentist) may also help relieve your symptoms. Pain relievers, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), can also help.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: dizziness, pain, restricted movement, and clicking sounds from jaw, history of headaches, jaw pain, pain in the back of the neck

Symptoms that always occur with temporomandibular joint (tmj) dysfunction disorder: pain, restricted movement, and clicking sounds from jaw

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Acute salivary duct stone (sialolithiasis)

A salivary duct stone is the most common disorder of the salivary glands (where you make spit). They can range in size from tiny particles to stones that are several centimeters in length.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: swelling on one side of the face, swollen jaw, painful face swelling, spontaneous jaw pain, painful jaw swelling

Urgency: Phone call or in-person visit

Myofascial pain syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome is also called chronic myofascial pain (CMP. ) Pressure on certain points of the muscles causes referred pain, meaning the pain is felt elsewhere in the body.

The cause is believed to be muscle injury through overuse, either from sports or from a job requiring repetitive motion. Tension, stress, and poor posture can also cause habitual tightening of the muscles, a form of overuse.

This overuse causes scar tissue, or adhesions, to form in the muscles. These points are known as trigger points, since they trigger pain at any stimulus.

Symptoms include deep, aching muscular pain that does not go away with rest or massage, but may actually worsen. There is often difficulty sleeping due to pain.

Myofascial pain syndrome should be seen by a medical provider, since it can develop into a similar but more severe condition called fibromyalgia.

Diagnosis is made through physical examination and applying mild pressure to locate the trigger points.

Treatment involves physical therapy, pain medications, and trigger point injections. In some cases, acupuncture and antidepressants are helpful.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: dizziness, spontaneous shoulder pain, pain in the back of the neck, tender muscle knot, general numbness

Symptoms that always occur with myofascial pain syndrome: tender muscle knot

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Tooth abscess (infection)

A tooth abscess is a collection of infected material (pus) in the center of a tooth. It is due to bacterial infection.

Rarity: Uncommon

Top Symptoms: severe jaw or tooth pain, swollen jaw, jaw stiffness, tooth pain that gets worse with hot, cold, or sweet beverages, warm and red jaw swelling

Symptoms that always occur with tooth abscess (infection): severe jaw or tooth pain

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Infected wisdom tooth (pericoronitis)

Pericoronitis of the 3rd molar is an infection of the gums surrounding the 3rd molar (wisdom tooth). It almost never happens to normal teeth because wisdom teeth take a long time to break the gums (erupt). It’s believed that once the wisdom tooth breaks the surface of the gums, the bacteria in the mouth get into the gums at that spot and cause an infection. This is also worsened by food particles that build up in the area.

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: possible wisdom tooth pain, moderate tooth pain, tooth pain that makes chewing difficult, severe tooth pain, mild tooth pain

Symptoms that always occur with infected wisdom tooth (pericoronitis): possible wisdom tooth pain

Urgency: In-person visit

Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa)

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the canal which runs from the eardrum to the opening of the ear.

It is caused by anything that introduces bacteria, fungus, or a virus into the canal. Water that stays inside the ear after swimming is a common cause, as are cotton swabs used for cleaning or earpieces that create irritation.

Most susceptible are children, because they have narrower ear canals that do not drain well.

Early symptoms include redness, itching, and discomfort inside the ear canal, sometimes with drainage of clear fluid.

Even mild symptoms should be treated because they can quickly get worse. The infection can spread and intensify, becoming very painful with increased drainage, swelling, fever, and loss of hearing.

Diagnosis is made through patient history and physical examination of the ear canal. Lab tests may be done on a sample of the discharge from the ear.

Treatment includes having a medical provider clean the ear canal of debris and discharge, and a prescription for antibiotic and/or steroid eardrops.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: fever, ear canal pain, ear fullness/pressure, jaw pain, ear pain that gets worse when moving

Urgency: Primary care doctor

Tension headache (first onset)

Tension-type headaches are the most common type of headache. It is pain or discomfort in the head and/or neck. It’s often associated with muscle tightness in these areas. This condition can occur as little as once a year (infrequent) but as often as more than 15 days per month (chronic). The cause of tension-type headaches is not clear.

Rarity: Common

Top Symptoms: new headache, nausea or vomiting, moderate headache, loss of appetite, mild headache

Symptoms that always occur with tension headache (first onset): new headache

Symptoms that never occur with tension headache (first onset): photo and phonophobia, throbbing headache, headache resulting from a head injury

Urgency: Self-treatment

Dislocation of the jaw

A jaw dislocation is when the bones of the mandible (lower jaw) come unhinged from the bones of the side of the head.

Rarity: Rare

Top Symptoms: jaw pain from an injury, locking or dislocating jaw

Symptoms that always occur with dislocation of the jaw: jaw pain from an injury

Urgency: Hospital emergency room

When Should I be Concerned about Jaw Pain?- CaliSmile Orthodontics

Jaw pain is any kind of physical discomfort localized in the jaw. However, sometimes it can radiate to other areas of the face. Jaw pain is a very common problem. In most cases, it does not require immediate medical attention. While this is a relief, sometimes jaw pain can be indicative of a more serious underlying condition.

Jaw pain is caused by a myriad of issues. It can be caused by sinuses, ear problems, dental issues, injured nerved endings in the jaw, heart attacks, etc. Therefore, it can be difficult to tell what exactly is causing your jaw pain. Depending on its cause and severity, jaw pain can affect your ability to speak and eat. If you have severe, worsening, or persistent jaw pain, you should consult with your doctor or dentist as soon as you can.

Symptoms of Jaw Pain

• Pain in the face or jaw that worsens when the person uses their jaw (pain could range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation).
• Joint and muscle tenderness (accompanied by a fever, this might indicate an infection).
• Limited range of motion of the mouth.
• Jaw alignment problems.
• Clicking or popping sounds while opening or closing the jaw.
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
• Headaches with or without ear pain and pressure behind the eyes (tension or cluster headaches).
• Dizziness and vertigo (a spinning sensation).
• Jaw locking
• Facial swelling.

Causes of Jaw Pain

1. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder

The temporomandibular joint is a cluster of muscles, bones, and nerve endings that are responsible for the jaw movement. Thus, TMJ disorder is any condition that affects any of these connective parts. TMJ disorder can be caused by several things;

• Injury to the jaw joint. This could happen if blood vessels, muscles, or nerve endings in the TMJ were compromised.
• Excess stimulation of the joint. There is a condition called temporal arteritis. It develops when the arteries on the temples become inflamed. It is caused by enthusiastic and lengthy chewing. This condition can affect the TMJ and can cause headaches as well.
• A displaced disc that cushions the jaw movement.
• Arthritis of the protective disc that cushions TMJ.
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism).

2. Trauma

Trauma is any physical injury or strain to the body. For instance, if a person took a severe hit to the jaw, it would likely lead to TMJ pain. Jaw pain can be caused by a broken or dislocated jaw. One can dislocate their jaw by opening the mouth too suddenly and too wide, for instance, if one yawned too wide.

3. Dental Conditions

Gum diseases, cavity, damaged tooth, tooth abscess, or even a tooth gap can cause jaw pain. These conditions can compromise the blood vessels and nerve endings in the gum and cause jaw pain.

4. Sinus Problems

Sinuses are air-filled cavities located close to the TMJ. If your sinuses get infected, they can be filled with mucus or pus, which could put pressure on the joint and cause jaw pain.

5. Cluster and Tension Headaches

These kinds of headaches are usually caused by stress, and they can cause debilitating pain. Cluster headaches typically cause pain behind or around the eyes, but the pain can radiate to the jaw.

6. Heart Attack

This is by far the most serious cause of jaw pain. If the jaw pain is sudden and accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain/discomfort, feeling faint, sweating, and nausea, you might be having a heart attack. Please call 911 immediately.

If you have severe and recurrent jaw pain, or if you have a combination of the symptoms seen above, see your doctor, dentist, or oral surgeon. You would want to know if your jaw pain was an underlying condition to something more serious.

Book your free Consultation now!

5 Common Causes of TMJ Flare-Ups, Advanced Dental Care of Round Rock, TX

For many patients with a TMJ disorder, the issue tends to come and go, presenting as a flare-up that gradually subsides in a few days. People with more severe cases and persistent pain or swelling may need professional treatment to maintain jaw function and a better quality of life. Home treatments and remedies can be used to relieve mild to moderate pain while certain preventative measures can help reduce the number and frequency of these flare-ups.

Understanding TMJ disorder

The temporomandibular joint is located just in front of each ear and allows the jaw to open and close. When persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, or popping occur, a patient may be diagnosed with a TMJ disorder. Various reasons a person may develop this condition include:

• Improper joint formation or growth
• Lifestyle choices
• Trauma to the jaw or surrounding area
• Problems with arthritis
• Habitual bruxism, or clenching and grinding of teeth

An evaluation by a dental professional is required for an accurate diagnosis.

Causes of TMJ flare-ups

While there are several reasons a patient can experience sudden or severe jaw pain, inflammation and overworked muscles tend to be the most common causes of TMJ flare-ups. Many physical changes and lifestyle habits can contribute to swelling around the joint and muscle tension.

1. Stress

The negative impact of stress on the body is a serious issue in today’s society. When a person experiences a stressful situation, the natural physical responses can result in TMJ problems. Increased muscle tension, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and head can lead to the painful swelling of this joint. Clenching or grinding teeth and lack of sleep, which are common side effects of increased stress levels, can also make matters worse.

2. Poor posture

Improper alignment can cause headaches, back pain, and, in some cases, TMJ pain. If a person has bad posture, this can lead to a misaligned spine and a protruding jaw. Those who spend much of their day sitting, especially in a car or at a computer, are more prone to posture and alignment issues.

3. Eating habits

Those with a TMJ disorder should avoid eating too many tough, hard, or chewy foods. The pressure and muscle fatigue caused by excessive chewing and exaggerated movements can lead to painful flare-ups. Patients should stick to a diet of softer foods, take smaller bites, and avoid chewing gum to prevent symptoms from worsening.

4. Hormonal changes

A sudden increase or decrease in hormone levels can lead to joint inflammation. This includes the jaw, so patients who experience hormonal changes may notice pain and swelling in this area. This is particularly true for women, who experience estrogen and progesterone fluctuations throughout adulthood.

5. Dehydration

All joints and muscles of the body need sufficient hydration to maintain necessary lubrication and function. If a person is not drinking enough water, pain and inflammation of the joints and muscles, including the temporomandibular joint, can occur.

Conclusion

While a TMJ disorder can develop for any number of reasons, many everyday occurrences can lead to sudden flare-ups. By understanding the most common causes of symptom outbreaks, patients can take preventative measures to help keep pain and inflammation at bay.

Request an appointment here: https://adcroundrock.com or call Round Rock Dental Office at (512) 720-5868 for an appointment in our Round Rock office.

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Neuromuscular Dentistry and Back Pain

If you have back pain that you haven’t been able to get diagnosed or alleviate, consider a TMJ consultation at our Green Bay dental office. Dental Designs by Quandt can help you determine whether or not your jaw alignment is causing back pain and TMJ disorder symptoms. We can then help you overcome these symptoms with high-quality, customized treatments.

What Does the Jaw Have to do With Your Back?

TMJ disorder is being increasingly recognized as a problem that can affect more than one local area of the body. If you have any symptoms of TMJ disorder, such as jaw clicking, difficulty opening your mouth, jaw locking, headaches, radiating ear pain, or jaw tenderness, and you also have neck, shoulder, and back pain, they could all be related. As you probably know, everything in your body is connected and, when something is out of alignment, it can have an impact on the way other parts of your body function.

Treating TMJ Disorder at Dental Designs by Quandt

You may not have expected that a dentist could help alleviate your back pain, but it’s definitely possible. At our practice, we offer a variety of services including neuromuscular dentistry. After assessing your jaw and your oral health, we can make recommendations to help you improve your jaw alignment and minimize or even eradicate your pain symptoms.

A smile makeover by Dr. Quandt and his team could help with your jaw alignment. It might also be a matter of using an oral appliance that helps you retrain your jaw to stay in the optimal position. We utilize a TENS unit to help us determine the best alignment for your jaw, and we have an overwhelmingly positive list of testimonials from patients who have undergone treatment for TMJ disorder that has helped eliminate their back pain, shoulder and neck pain, jaw pain, headaches, ear pain, and other unpleasant symptoms associated with TMJ disorder.

If you’re currently suffering from chronic pain and can’t figure out why, be sure to contact our practice today. No matter what the problem is, we’ll help you get to the bottom of it and solve it.

How Do You Know If You Have TMJ Or Something Else?

Everyone has TMJ, but not everyone has TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints—you have one located on each side of your face and they work as a sliding hinge whenever you open or close your mouth. If these joints cause pain and tension in the jaw, you may have TMJ disorder, but occasionally other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Here’s how to know if you have TMJ or something else.

TMJ disorder goes beyond pain in the jaw; the muscle tension and inflammation caused by TMJ disorder lead to a wide range of symptoms. If your TMJ pain is accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms, it’s likely that you have TMJ disorder:

• Headaches
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Pain in the upper back and neck
• Tingling or numbness in the fingers
• Clicking or popping sounds when chewing or opening your mouth
• Dental issues, including pain, abnormal wear, chips, or cracks
• Facial pain
• Tinnitus (ringing ears), earaches, or a feeling of fullness in the ears

If the only symptom you’re experiencing is pain, you may still have TMJ disorder, but it’s also possible that you’re dealing with another issue.

Because of the location of the temporomandibular joints, there are a number of conditions that can be mistaken for TMJ disorder. These include:

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Just as you have two temporomandibular joints on each side of the face, you also have two trigeminal nerves that control your jaw. It’s easy to see why dysfunction in these nerves is often mistaken for TMJ disorder. When the trigeminal nerves are irritated, it causes sharp pain in the face, teeth, and around the ear, along with numbness or tingling—but only on one side of the face. Unlike TMJ pain, trigeminal neuralgia pain is characterized by a feeling of electric shock.

Cluster, Migraine, or Tension Headaches

Although headaches are often experienced in the forehead, they can also originate at the sides of the face and temples, with pain radiating outwards. Chronic cluster, migraine, or tension headaches may be mistaken for TMJ disorder, especially since TMJ disorder itself can cause such headaches.  

Sinus Issues

Chronic sinus pain and sinus infections can also produce pain around the temples that can feel like TMJ disorder. An infection is typically accompanied by a fever and discharge; chronic sinus issues may be caused by allergies or structural problems within the sinuses. 

Other Causes of TMJ Pain

Facial and jaw pain can also be caused by an abscessed tooth, herpes zoster (shingles), or facial trauma.

The best way to determine whether your TMJ pain is caused by TMJ disorder or another condition is to visit a TMJ specialist for a diagnosis. At TMJ Plus Wellness Center, we’re experts in TMJ pain, which means we have the in-depth knowledge to identify its root cause. Dr. Coats will conduct a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms; if she determines that your pain is caused by TMJ disorder, she will work with you to put together a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

If you’re experiencing facial pain and you’d like to schedule an assessment with Dr. Coats, contact us today at 817-481-6888 to make an appointment.

How it Might Be Affecting You, And How to Find Relief

This complex joint is a series of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones that move your jaw forward, backward, and side to side. When anything goes wrong in your jaw joint, you can experience pain and trouble moving your jaw. To understand TMJ and what treatment you’ll need, it helps to know what symptoms to look for.

Symptoms of TMJ

If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may be dealing with a temporomandibular joint disorder:

• Pain or tenderness in your jaw joint
• Pain in your neck or shoulders
• Tired feeling or pain in your face
• Swelling on the side of your face
• Pain in or around your ear
• Pain while chewing or an uncomfortable bite
• Toothaches
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Hearing problems or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Locked jaw, which makes it difficult to open or close your mouth
• Clicking or grating sensation when opening and closing your mouth

Risk factors and causes

While it’s usually easy to recognize the symptoms of temporomandibular joint and nerve pain, it’s more difficult to determine what’s causing your pain. Your doctor or dentist may not be able to tell you what’s causing your TMJ pain. However, a TMJ disorder can occur under the following situations:

• Arthritis damage in joint cartilage
• Disc erosion in the jaw
• A jaw injury like whiplash or a heavy blow
• Grinding or clenching teeth (chronic)
• Stress or anxiety that causes you to tighten facial and jaw muscles
• Poor posture
• Orthodontic braces
• Excessive use of chewing gum
• Connective tissue diseases that affect your temporomandibular joint

Diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorder

One of the first people to notice or diagnose a TMJ disorder is usually your dentist. However, your family physician, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, or an oral surgeon can also diagnose and treat your TMJ. Typically, your doctor will check your jaw joints for pain and tenderness. They’ll also listen for any clicking or grating sounds when you move your jaw and check your jaw’s movement and facial muscles. X-rays or further testing like a CAT scan or MRI can also help your doctor rule out other issues and give a full picture of what’s happening in your face.

Treatment options for TMJ

TMJ has many treatment options. Your first line of care can start at home. But after you’ve exhausted at-home treatment options for your jaw, you may need to see your doctor for further care.

At-home treatment

As you know and practice self-care for your temporomandibular jaw disorder, you may find relief and healing. You can do the following at home:

• Eat soft foods. Load up on non-chewy foods and avoid foods that require wide bites like thick sandwiches.
• Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen or naproxen.
• Practice good posture and avoid resting your chin on your hand.
• Avoid extreme or unnecessary jaw movements. Skip the chewing gum, place a hand under your chin when you yawn, and avoid things like singing or yelling that might cause you to open your jaw too wide.
• Position your jaw with your teeth slightly apart as often as possible. Place your tongue between your teeth if you have problems with grinding or clenching your teeth.
• Place moist heat or cold packs on your jaw and the side of your face for about 10 minutes. You can do this several times a day.
• Learn to relax. You’ll need a few stress management techniques in your arsenal to help you relax and loosen your jaw. Consider asking your doctor or dentist about how physical therapy can help.
• Massage your neck and jaw muscles. Where appropriate, ask your doctor or physical therapist about gentle stretches you can do at home.

Medical treatment

See your doctor if the pain and tenderness in your jaw is persistent, or if you can’t open and close your mouth. A doctor may recommend the following types of treatment:

• Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxers, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Oral splints or mouth guards. These oral devices can be soft or hard and usually slip over your teeth to help keep your jaw in place.
• Physical therapy. A physical therapist can give you stretches and massage techniques to help strengthen and stretch your jaw. They can also do ultrasounds and an evaluation of behaviors that might be making your TMJ worse.
• Surgical options. When other treatment options can’t relieve your pain, your doctor may suggest surgery or other procedures. Some of these might include open joint surgery, arthrocentesis, injections at the joint, TMJ arthroscopy, or modified condylotomy. These procedures range from non-invasive to traditional surgery.

Anytime you have aching pain in your face, temple, ear, or jaw, you may be dealing with TMJ. As you understand your symptoms, take care of yourself at home, and counsel with your doctor, you can find relief. Make an appointment with your doctor to learn more about TMJ and what you can do to relieve your symptoms.

Otalgia – ear pain in a healthy ear

Otalgia, translated from Latin, is pain in the ear. In practice, otolaryngologists call otalgia such a pain syndrome when a person complains of pain in the ear, and when examining the hearing organ, nothing pathological is found. It is believed that otalgia accounts for about 50% of all cases of ear pain.

Mechanism of occurrence of otalgia

What can cause pain in a healthy ear? The organ of hearing is abundantly supplied with nerve endings.It is supplied with its branches by the trigeminal, facial, glossopharyngeal, vagus nerves, as well as the cervical spinal nerves. These same nerve trunks give off branches to many other organs of the head and neck. Therefore, inflammation or other pathological process, for example, in a tooth, can give off pain in the ear.

Most common diseases causing otalgia:

– diseases of teeth and gums;
– diseases of the temporomandibular joint;
– diseases of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx;
– diseases of the cervical spine;
– neuralgia.

Diseases of teeth and gums

Diseases of the teeth are the most common cause of otalgia. Otalgia is especially characteristic for the defeat of the molars (posterior teeth) of the lower jaw. Caries, pulpitis, periodontal abscess, and impacted wisdom teeth can cause ear pain.

Diseases of the temporomandibular joint

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is adjacent to the anterior wall of the ear canal. Unsurprisingly, his medical conditions can mimic ear pain.

The following signs are characteristic of VNS pathology:

– pain in the joint area;
– Difficulty opening the mouth;
– clicks or crunching when moving in the joint;
– soreness when feeling the joint and adjacent masticatory muscles.

Diseases of the cervical spine

Radiculopathy is damage to a nerve resulting from compression (compression) inside the spinal canal. This leads to pain. Radiculopathy of the nerves of the cervical spine can have various causes. For example, the nerve trunk can be compressed by osteophytes (bone growths).

As the branches of the cervical spinal nerves reach the ear, problems with the cervical spine can cause ear pain and itching.

Neuralgia

Neuralgia is a nerve disease manifested by pain in the area of ​​distribution of the branches of a given nerve trunk.

Ear pain can be caused by the following types of neuralgia:

– glossopharyngeal
– trigeminal
– neuralgia of the geniculate ganglion and wing of the palatine ganglion.

Thus, ear pain often does not have any underlying ear pathology. Therefore, if, when examining the ear of the ENT, the doctor does not find inflammatory changes in it, THIS does not mean that you are healthy. A careful search for the cause of otalgia is very important. In such cases, a consultation with a neurologist or dentist is prescribed.

Rustam Iskaderov, otorhinolaryngologist, expert in otolaryngology, Naberezhnye Chelny, according to compulsory medical insurance

90,000 Why does the back of the head hurt and what to do about it?

The pain in the head can have different causes: from brain diseases to banal fatigue.Without appropriate examinations, it is difficult to quickly determine why the patient’s neck hurts: the cause may be vasospasm, high blood pressure, diseases of the spine, swelling, injury, or simply fatigue and overwork of the neck muscles.

Temporary causes of headache

Pain in the back of the head and temples is often caused not by diseases, but by overexertion. The reason is muscle fatigue and increased intracranial pressure. Pain occurs against a background of high mental stress, stress, anxiety and depression.The patient often feels nausea and dizziness.

A negative state of mind not only affects the blood vessels of the brain, but also forces us to take positions that are uncomfortable for the body: slouching our back, lowering our shoulders, pressing our neck to our chest. All this leads to muscle strain, which increases the pain in the back of the head. And in the case of a diseased spine, it additionally strains the nerves. As a result, the discomfort only intensifies.

There are many ways to deal with this type of headache.If you are overworked or have been in an uncomfortable position for a long time, light exercises, a warm bath, and a head and neck massage will help. If the pain is severe, then you can first take an analgesic. If you have a serious illness (such as depression or anxiety disorder), see your doctor to help you start treatment and relieve your symptoms.

Why does the back of the head hurt with diseases of the spine?

There are two main reasons: pain can simply spread from a sore back, or it can appear due to pinched nerve endings.Back diseases often come together: due to curvature and osteochondrosis, neuralgia begins and a hernia develops.

• Osteochondrosis is a common cause of pain in the back of the head. With it, the discs of the cervical vertebrae are destroyed. The pain is felt in the neck, temples, and back of the head. The patient may complain of tinnitus, loss of coordination, and nausea.
• Neuralgia of the occipital nerve manifests itself against the background of other diseases of the spine or occurs after prolonged hypothermia and draft.It has a severe shooting pain, usually with movement of the head and neck. At rest, the pain is very weak, and there are no other unpleasant sensations.
• Cervical spondylosis is an increase in the volume of bone tissue. It compresses blood vessels and impairs neck mobility. As a result, the patient begins to have a constant dull pain in the back of the head, which increases with any physical exertion.

For any of these conditions, see a neurologist. A simple visual examination will help to determine the picture of the disease, but it will not be superfluous to show the doctor a pre-made X-ray or MRI of the cervical spine. With a scan of the bones of the spine and surrounding tissues, it will be easier to make the correct diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.

Diseases of the brain and blood vessels

If back diseases have been ruled out, it is worth looking for the cause in the heart, blood vessels and brain. Unfortunately, diseases of the nervous and circulatory systems are very common, and almost all of them cause dizziness and pain. Among vascular diseases, the following are especially common:

• Hypertension , or high blood pressure.It is accompanied by headache, double vision and dizziness. Unpleasant sensations begin throughout the body, especially with a sharp jump in pressure;
• Vascular spasms cause throbbing pain in the occiput that extends to the temporal and occipital lobes. With movement, the pain intensifies;
• Intracranial hypertension is an increase in pressure inside the skull. In addition to severe pressing pain, the patient experiences weakness, nausea, dizziness, hallucinations and convulsions begin;
• Stroke – blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain. An attack of acute pain occurs, the patient may be partially paralyzed, unable to distinguish the surrounding space, and speaks indistinctly. This is a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention to save life!

If the cause of the pain is in the brain, the following conditions are possible:

• Concussion – from injury or fall. Causes bruising and increased blood pressure, resulting in pain, nausea, and loss of coordination.
• Tumors , both benign and malignant, cause dull, persistent pain at the site of formation. As they grow, they press on the structures of the brain, causing them to break down. Intracranial pressure rises and blood flow may be impaired.

If you suspect these diseases, you should see a highly qualified neurologist or neurosurgeon. Depending on the symptoms, you may be prescribed computed tomography and MRI of the brain, its individual structures and angiography of the vessels.At the appointment, the doctor will definitely measure the pressure. You may be sent to an ophthalmologist to check your fundus, and if a tumor is suspected, you will have to undergo blood tests for antibodies.

Other causes of pain

The back of the head can hurt due to ailments not related to the nervous and circulatory system. The back of the head can give pain from:

• ENT diseases : tonsillitis, pharyngitis, inflammation of the nasopharynx and ear canals;
• dental diseases : deep caries, abnormal growth of wisdom teeth, periodontitis;
• eye diseases : cataracts, scleritis, conjunctivitis and many others.

If you find that the pain in the back of the head is not associated with problems in the brain, spine and blood vessels, see an otolaryngologist, dentist and ophthalmologist. Well, if these doctors do not find any deviations, we advise you to review your daily routine, warm up regularly and monitor your posture. Chances are good that the pain caused by muscle fatigue and overwork will stop. But, if you have a regular headache, it is better to consult a doctor for a medical examination and exclusion of pathologies.

90,000 What does the headache behind the ear say? Causes, symptoms and treatment

What does the headache behind the ear say? Causes, symptoms and treatment 90 160

Although headaches are common, pain behind the ear is atypical. This type can have several causes, from nerve damage to dental problems. The symptoms and further treatment will depend on the cause of the headache.

We will look at the signs and symptoms of headaches behind the ear, what causes them and how to get rid of them.

Causes of headache behind the ear

There are several possible causes of headache behind the ear. These include:

Occipital neuralgia

One of the most common causes of headache behind the ear is a condition called occipital neuralgia.

Occipital neuralgia occurs when the occipital nerve, or nerves that run from the top of the spinal cord up to the head, become damaged or inflamed.

Because of the similarity of symptoms, acute pain behind the ear is often mistaken for migraines or other types of headaches. People with occipital neuralgia describe chronic pain as piercing and throbbing. They also compare it to feeling an electric shock in the following places:

• Upper Neck
• Back of the head
• Behind the ears

Occipital neuralgia results from pressure or irritation on the occipital nerves.It usually only appears on one side of the head.

In some cases, pressure or irritation can be caused by inflammation, muscle strain or injury. Very often, doctors fail to determine the cause of occipital neuralgia.

Mastoiditis

Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone that is located directly behind the ear.

This infection is much more common in children than in adults and usually clears up completely without complications.

Mastoiditis can cause headaches behind the ear as well as fever, ear discharge, fatigue and hearing loss in the affected ear.

Temporomandibular joints

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the joints that connect the lower jaw to the base of the skull. These joints, when inflamed, can cause painful sensations.

While most people with temporomandibular joint inflammation experience local pain in the jaw or behind the ear, others may simply experience a headache behind the ear.

Inflammation of these joints can be associated with the following factors:

• Stress
• Teeth grinding
• Arthritis
• Injury
• Jaw alignment

Symptoms

Symptoms of a headache behind the ear can vary depending on the cause.

Occipital neuralgia can cause severe pain in the back of the head or upper neck. It often starts in the neck and rises higher up to the back of the head.Occasional pain is similar to an electric shock to the back of the head or neck.

Signs of infection such as fever or fatigue often accompany mastoiditis.

Inflammation or injury to the temporomandibular joint, other than a headache behind the ear, may cause tension or pain in the jaw.

• Additional symptoms people with headaches behind the ear may experience:
• Pain on one or both sides of the head
• Light sensitivity
• Burning and throbbing pain
• Pain behind the eyes
• Soreness of the scalp
• Pain when moving the neck

examination for headache behind the ear

It is imperative that you see a doctor who can make the correct diagnosis and help you determine your treatment plan.

To make a diagnosis, the physician must review the patient’s medical history, which includes information about any recent head, neck, or spine injury.

After this, the doctor will most likely perform a physical examination. To do this, he will press on the back of the head and the base of the skull to see if these touches cause pain. Such an examination is necessary to determine occipital neuralgia, since, in most cases, it is these places that are sensitive to touch.

An injection may be needed to numb the nerve. If after this a person experiences relief, then the cause of the pain is most likely occipital neuralgia.

In some cases, your doctor may order magnetic resonance imaging or blood tests to further confirm or rule out other causes of pain.

If occipital neuralgia has been ruled out as a possible cause of pain, at the first visit, the doctor will likely check for signs of mastoiditis, including fever and ear discharge.

For an accurate diagnosis, the doctor may examine the jaw or recommend a visit to the dentist to check for TMJ inflammation.

Home treatment

If the root cause of the headache cannot be identified, focus should be on treating the symptoms.

There are several home treatment options that can be used in addition to your doctor’s instructions. These home procedures include:

• Rest in a quiet room
• Anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. ibuprofen
• Neck muscles massage
• Applying something warm to the back of the neck
• Stress Reduction
• Stop grinding teeth

As with all treatment options, you should consult your doctor before using these recommendations.

Treatment

Physiotherapy is one of the methods of treatment of headache behind the ear

Depending on the cause of the headache behind the ear, the doctor may prescribe treatment, which includes:

• Prescription muscle relaxants
• Nerve blocks and steroid injections
• Physiotherapy
• Antidepressants
• Antisecretory drugs such as carbamazepine and gabapentin
• Antibiotics, for suspected mastoiditis
• Occlusal Cotter Pins

Nerve blocks and steroid injections are temporary methods and require regular visits to the doctor for repeated injections.

In rare cases, surgery may be required. As a rule, surgery is prescribed if the pain is not relieved by other methods of treatment or constantly reminds of itself.

Operations that can be assigned:

• Microvascular decompression. This procedure involves finding and relocating the blood vessels that compress the nerves.
• Stimulation of the occipital nerve. The neurostimulator sends several electrical impulses to the occipital nerves.In this case, electrical impulses can block pain signals sent to the brain.

Regardless of what treatment is prescribed, it is important to tell your doctor if they are effective or not.

Headaches behind the ear are generally not a life-threatening condition. It is very common for people to experience pain relief after quality rest or taking prescribed medication.

90,000 Trigeminal neuralgia! – Artiklid

More often NTN occurs in women 50 – 69 years old and has right-sided lateralization. The development of the disease is facilitated by various vascular, endocrine-metabolic, allergic disorders, as well as psychogenic factors.

HTN is considered idiopathic. However, there are several theories explaining the pathogenesis of the disease. The most likely cause of NTN is compression of the trigeminal nerve at the intro or extracranial level. This can be a volumetric process in the posterior cranial fossa (acoustic neuroma, meningioma, pons glioma), dislocation and expansion of the convoluted cerebellar arteries, aneurysm of the basilar artery, the formation of tunnel syndrome (compression of the 2nd and 3rd branches in the bone canals – infraorbital and lower jaw with congenital their narrowness and the addition of vascular diseases in old age), as a result of local odonto – or rhinogenic inflammatory process.

Compression disrupts axotoc, leads to the accumulation of pathotrophogens, activation of autoimmune processes and causes focal demyelination. Under the influence of prolonged pathological impulses from the periphery, a “focus” is formed in the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve, similar to an epileptic one, a generator of pathologically enhanced excitation (GK Kryzhanovsky), the existence of which no longer depends on afferent impulses. Impulses from trigger points arrive at the leading neurons of the generator and cause its facilitated activation.GPVV activates reticular, mesencephalic formations, thalamic nuclei, cerebral cortex, involves the limbic system, thus forming a pathological algogenic system.

The disease can develop after tooth extraction (the alveolar nerve is affected) – odontogenic neuralgia, as a result of circulatory disorders in the brain stem, as a result of herpetic infection, rarely due to demyelination of the trigeminal nerve root in multiple sclerosis.

Pain with HTN has the following characteristics:

Localization is strictly limited to the zone of innervation of the trigeminal nerve, usually 2 or 3 branches (in 5% of cases, the 1st branch).

The methods of treatment used in NTN are subdivided into medicinal, physiotherapeutic and surgical.

1. Drug treatment
The main drug in the treatment of NT is carbamazepine (finlepsin, tegretol). Carbamazepine promotes GABAergic inhibition in neuronal populations prone to paroxysmal forms of activity. Treatment begins with a dose of 0.1 x 2 times a day. Then the daily dose is gradually increased to the minimum effective.It is not recommended to exceed a dose of more than 1200 mg / day.

6 – 8 weeks after the onset of the effect, the dose is gradually reduced to a minimum maintenance dose or completely canceled.

In patients using the drug for a long time, its effectiveness gradually decreases. In addition, with prolonged use, the drug causes toxic damage to the liver, kidneys, bronchospasm, aplastic pancytopenia. Mental disorders, memory loss, ataxia, dizziness, drowsiness, and dyspeptic disorders may occur.The drug is known to have a teratogenic effect.

Contraindications to the use of carbamazepine: atrioventricular block, glaucoma, prostatitis, blood diseases, individual intolerance.

When using it, it is necessary to periodically (1 time in 2 – 3 months) monitor a general blood test, biochemical parameters of liver functions.

Of the other anticonvulsants for the treatment of NTN, diphenin (phenytoin), valproic acid preparations (depakin, konvulex) can be used.

Baclofen, Phenibut, Pantogam are widely used in the complex therapy of NTN. Their action is based on replenishing the deficiency of GABA.

Baclofen is prescribed orally 5 mg x 3 times / day, with meals, increasing the dose by 5 mg every 3 days to a daily dose of 6-75 mg, which is used for 2 weeks, and then gradually decreases (contraindications – epilepsy, psychosis, Parkinson’s disease).

Phenibut is prescribed after meals at 250 mg x 2 to 3 times / day for 2 to 3 weeks.

Pantogam is used at a dose of 0.5 – 1.0 x 3 times / day for 1.5 – 2 months.

Sodium oxybutyrate is used to relieve crises. 5 ml of a 20% solution is injected slowly intravenously in a 5% glucose solution. However, the effect of one injection is short-lived (several hours). The drug is contraindicated in myasthenia gravis. Parallel monitoring of serum potassium is required (causes hypokalemia).

The amino acid glycine, which is an inhibitory mediator in the central nervous system, can be used as an additional agent.In the form of myeglinol glycine, the drug at a dose of 110 mg / kg is dissolved in 50 ml of water. The course of treatment continues for 4 to 5 weeks.

Antidepressants, which soften the perception of pain, eliminate depression, and change the functional state of the brain, are of no small importance in NTN therapy. The most effective is amitriptyline at a dose of 50 – 150 mg / day.

Neuroleptics (pimozide), tranquilizers (diazepam) are quite effective.

In patients with vascular diseases of the brain, the treatment regimen includes vasoactive drugs (trental, cavinton, etc.).

To reduce the activity of “trigger” zones in the acute stage of the disease, local anesthetics are used – lidocaine, trimecaine, chloroethyl.

For autoimmune and allergic processes, it is advisable to use glucocorticoids.

2. Physiotherapeutic methods
The use of acupuncture, laser puncture, impulse currents of low voltage and low frequency, magnetic and electromagnetic fields, infrared and ultraviolet radiation, ultrasound, electrophoresis of medicinal substances (for example, 2% solution of xydiphon ).

3. A number of authors recommend carrying out efferent methods of ter

90,000 causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment

Do not tolerate headache, weakness, blurred vision, sleep problems. Perhaps you need the help of a neurologist

A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of the nervous system of the brain and spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the muscular system. Doctors of general specialization, therapists, are most often sent to see a neurologist if they suspect a malfunction of the patient’s nervous system.

Headaches

Almost everyone periodically suffers from headaches – due to excessive mental and physical stress or, for example, during a cold. However, in some people, headaches can be very severe – this is how migraines manifest themselves, for example. In other cases, pain can be caused by more serious causes: a cerebral hemorrhage, tumor, or increased intracranial pressure.

If severe headaches bother you constantly, do not postpone a visit to a neurologist.

Chronic pain

Constant pain in the neck and back is usually attributed to fatigue and unsuccessful lifting of weights, expecting it to go away on its own. However, if the pain becomes chronic, it is worth visiting a neurologist.

Remember that such ailments can be symptoms of a spinal injury or a malfunctioning of the nervous system.

Dizziness

Constant dizziness and loss of balance can indicate impaired brain function, as well as various neurological or cardiovascular diseases.

If dizziness appears regularly, be sure to consult a therapist and neurologist.

Numbness or tingling

Like dizziness, numbness and tingling can be symptoms of many conditions.

The most alarming symptom is tingling or numbness on one side of the body, associated with muscle weakness or difficulty moving. This may be a symptom of a violation of the peripheral nerves or even a sign of cerebrovascular accident, which means that a visit to the doctor should not be postponed in any case.

Weakness

Weakness is often confused with fatigue, but it is very important to distinguish between the two.

With muscle weakness, a person is not able, for example, to raise a cup with his hand, despite all the efforts. With fatigue, a person can do this, albeit at the cost of considerable effort. In addition, weakness usually affects specific muscle groups, while fatigue affects all muscles.

Neck pain can be found even in the workplace. There are effective exercises that you can do right at your desk.

Understanding the difference between these conditions is very important, as fatigue can indicate a lack of sleep, overtraining, or a cold, while weakness can indicate more serious problems such as a stroke or neuromuscular disease.

If the weakness is combined with numbness and spreads to one side of the body, it could be a sign of a stroke or other serious neurological problem.All of them require an immediate visit to a neurologist.

Movement problems

Movement disorders may include clumsiness, tremors, slowness of movement, unintentional movement, or difficulty walking.

If such symptoms appear regularly, they may indicate a malfunction of the brain and are a reason for an urgent visit to a neurologist.

Vision problems

The gradual loss of visual acuity that develops with age requires observation by an ophthalmologist.While a sudden significant decrease in vision is often the result of neurological disorders.

Also, a reason to visit a neurologist may be episodes of double vision, as well as the appearance in both eyes of visual anomalies that do not go away after closing one eye.

Thought disorder

Intellectual difficulties can be expressed in different ways: problems finding words or speaking, problems with memory, personality changes, and confusion.These problems require a visit to a neurologist, because in adults they can be signs of neurodegenerative diseases.

Also, a visit to a neurologist is necessary if a child has problems with thinking and memory.

Sleep problems

Sleep disturbances are very common and many require the intervention of a therapist, ENT or pulmonologist.

If insomnia is combined with other neurological symptoms (headaches, neck pain, signs of memory impairment), you should see a neurologist.

“Clamped” neck

This non-medical term is often used to describe an unpleasant sensation in the neck with which a person gets up after sleeping in an uncomfortable position.

Similar symptoms occur in those who have been sitting at the computer for a long time without interruption or who suddenly jerked their heads.

A pinched neck is not a diagnosis, and there can be very different causes for this problem.Usually, muscle spasm or nerve clamping due to displacement of the intervertebral disc leads to a feeling of stiffness.

Unpleasant sensations usually disappear after resting in a comfortable position and practicing physiotherapy exercises. Caution: If symptoms persist for more than a week, do not delay your visit to the doctor.

Consequences of muscle strain

Neck muscle pain is the result of injuries to the muscles in the back. They can be caused by static stress provoked by improper posture, heavy lifting, requiring sharp movements in the waist area.

The main symptoms are reduced flexibility and limited mobility of the neck, pain.

Prolonged rest and change of activity usually relieve discomfort, however, if the pain is acute and does not go away within a few days, you should see a doctor.

Neck sprain

Ligaments are strands of connective tissue that hold bones together, including the bones of the spine.

Sprains can occur as a result of a fall or sudden sharp turns of the head, which unnecessarily stretch and overload the ligaments. Another reason is chronic stress due to prolonged stay in the wrong posture.

If there is severe neck pain, limited mobility, and swelling, especially after a fall, lay the person on their back on a hard surface and call an ambulance immediately.

Herniated disc

A herniated disc develops when, as a result of injury, the nucleus pulposus, located under the hard fibrous membrane of the disc, protrudes into the lumen between the vertebrae.This leads to pinching of the nerve roots and even damage to the spinal cord.

Treatment of intervertebral hernias at home is impossible! If you experience the symptoms described above, you should immediately consult a doctor. Keep in mind that in some cases, surgery may be required.

When the roots are pinched in the cervical spine, there is severe pain, weakness and numbness in the hand, as well as dizziness and headaches.

The appearance of intervertebral hernias is provoked by injuries, as well as severe overstrain, for example, lifting a heavy load with a curved spine.

The article was prepared based on the materials of the takzdorovo.ru portal of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation

Wisdom tooth: symptoms, treatment.

What is Wisdom Tooth?

This is a type of molar.Molars are the chewing teeth located at the back of the jaw. Molars are divided into three types – first, second and third. The third type of molar is the same tooth. If you count the teeth in order, starting with the left or right incisor, then it will be the eighth in a row. Such teeth begin to cut behind the second molars (7s), usually at the age of 17-25. This is where the popular name comes from.

The “wisdom tooth”, when ideally located in the bone of the rudiment, usually grows evenly. However, quite often, due to the incorrect (not parallel to the adjacent tooth) position, such a tooth either does not come out completely to the surface, or it touches the adjacent tooth and injures it.This can lead to many problems – carious damage to the adjacent tooth, malocclusion, periocoranitis (inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding erupting teeth), and in advanced cases even to osteomeelitis (inflammation of the bone marrow).

Symptoms of the appearance of a “wisdom tooth”

• Pain in the back of the jaw.
• Headaches.
• Facial pain.
• Pain in both jaws, which can radiate to the ear, neck, throat, chest area.

Pain sensations are poorly localized, therefore, when these symptoms appear, it is better to go for an examination to a dentist-surgeon. In our clinics, consultation-examination is carried out free of charge (more details here), for this you need to call the clinic nearest to you and sign up for it. You can see the addresses and phone numbers of our clinics here.

Treatment of “wisdom teeth”

As a rule, such teeth must be removed (read more on this page), since in the presence of chewing teeth (6,7), they are practically not used for chewing food.In addition, such teeth can lead to a change in the bite, the correction of which is a rather lengthy and expensive procedure. However, in some cases, due to the absence of chewing teeth, a wisdom tooth can be used to attach a denture. You can read more about this here.

Benign formations of subcutaneous fat | SPb GBUZ “City polyclinic No. 122”

Benign formations of subcutaneous fat | SPb GBUZ “City Polyclinic No. 122”

6

Feb

2016

Atheroma

Atheroma is a common problem that affects people of all ages and both sexes.What is the essence of this disease? This is not a tumor, but a cyst, that is, an atheroma is a “pouch” that has a capsule and is filled with thick yellowish masses, often with an unpleasant odor.

It is formed as a result of blockage of the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland with thickened discharge. Atheroma develops on areas of the skin rich in sebaceous glands (scalp, face, back, anterior abdominal wall). Most often, atheroma occurs on the scalp, on the face, on the back in the form of a painless, rounded, dense formation on the skin.With inflammation, the skin above it turns red, the size of the cyst increases, it becomes painful.

What is the manifestation of atheroma?

Atheroma is often multiple. It is a tumor-like formation of a round shape, soft consistency in size from 5 to 40 mm and more. The skin above it is usually not changed, however, in the case of a secondary infection, inflammation, it may have a reddish tint.

Atheroma is mobile with surrounding tissues, painless.Atheroma can remain small for many years, or grow. Sometimes atheroma communicates with the surface of the skin through a small opening through which atheromatous masses (curdled, with an unpleasant odor) can be separated.

Often atheroma suppurate, in addition, there may be a rupture of atheroma into the subcutaneous tissue.

If the atheroma is small and does not bother the patient, then it may not be removed. In other cases, surgical treatment is indicated. Atheromas are removed under local anesthesia (pain relief).

Atheromas and lipomas are very similar in appearance. Only a doctor can distinguish them.

What causes atheroma?

The factors that predispose to the development of atheroma are traditionally considered unfavorable environmental conditions and metabolic disorders (chronic trauma, hyperhidrosis, hormonal dysfunctions, etc.) heads, back of the neck, armpits, interscapular space, perineum, labia, scrotum.

Treatment of atheroma

Removal of atheroma is possible either surgically (excision followed by the imposition of cosmetic sutures), or, if the cyst is small, removal with a laser.

Fats (lipomas)

In official medicine, a wen is called a lipoma.

This term is understood as a tumor from adipose tissue, which is evident even from the name, which consists of two Greek words: “lipos” – “fat” and “Oma” – “tumor”.The causes of the appearance of wen are still unclear.

Fat can affect not only the skin, but also adipose tissue, as well as other types of tissues (usually connective tissue).

Depending on the depth of penetration, the wen differs in density: the deeper it is, the denser it is. Most often, a wen forms under the skin. It is a motionless soft or elastic formation that does not cause any pain or discomfort to a person. Fat can appear on any part of the body where there is adipose tissue: on the head, leg, arm, back, even on the penis.

Ultrasound examination is recommended to clarify the diagnosis. When the diagnosis is confirmed and the person agrees to surgery, the tumor is removed. The same recommendations apply to wen formed on other parts of the body: legs, arms, back, abdomen, etc.

Lipoma treatment

Zhirovik does not pose a danger to the state of the human body, as it is a benign tumor.

It is impossible to get rid of a lipoma simply by losing weight – the wen will not disappear, since it is still a tumor.Sometimes there is an increase in the tumor against the background of general weight loss. Fats (lipomas) are removed under local anesthesia (pain relief). In most cases, surgery will heal.

Hygroma

Hygroma is a formation consisting of a fairly well-defined capsule and a viscous jelly-like transparent content inside. It is often localized on the hand, and it is in this area that it often causes inconvenience.

There is no clear view of the cause of this scourge, like many other diseases.There is a connection with injuries, physical exertion, but in some cases the hygroma appears for no apparent reason. In this case, a slight swelling of the skin is formed, as if there is a pea or cherry inside.

The favorite localization of education is the area of ​​the wrist joint, although it happens that it appears in other places as well.

Hygroma comes from the membranes of the joint, which, for reasons unknown to us, protruding between the ligaments and tendons surrounding the joint, form a characteristic subcutaneous formation.

It can exist for a long time without causing discomfort, but pain sometimes appears over time. Especially often, anxiety appears in people who have to work a lot with their hands. Since the hygroma is associated with the joint, it happens that fluid flows into its cavity. Then, for a while, the impression may be created that the formation has disappeared, but, as a rule, after some time it appears again.

Pre-surgical treatment

In the vast majority of cases, conservative treatments are ineffective.Attempts to puncture hygromas – suck liquid with a syringe, inject various substances there. In this case, the cavity collapses for a while, but the shell itself does not disappear anywhere, and sooner or later the liquid accumulates again.

Absolutely terrible and painful method – crushing the hygroma.

In this case, the liquid is forced into the joint cavity, or the hygroma membrane breaks and the contents are poured into the tissue. Over time, at best, a relapse still occurs. At worst, in the area of ​​the injured hygroma, an inflammatory reaction can develop, up to suppuration.After crushing, sooner or later, the shell heals, restores its tightness, and the hygroma reappears.

What to do by ourselves?

If the issue with the operation has not yet been resolved, and the education begins to hurt intensely, it is advisable to try not to load the sore arm. Ideally, immobilization (creation of immobility) of the limb segment with a splint should be performed. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used locally and internally, physiotherapy has a good effect.

When to have surgery?

Hygroma is certainly not cancer, so there is no need to rush to the operation. Many people live with this formation all their lives (sometimes not with one), and do not pay any attention to it.

You should think about the operation in cases where the hygroma creates an unaesthetic appearance and causes pain during movement. Another indication for surgery is the rapid growth of education. If the gyrome is clearly increasing in size, it is not worth delaying the operation, because a large formation will be more difficult to radically remove.A radical operation is the main guarantee of the absence of relapse.

Galeppo Vadim Andreevich

Head of Department, surgeon

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