Yawning-Related Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice

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Thank you for your response, Doctor.
I was chatting with friends earlier, and they mentioned that yawning too forcefully can lead to similar issues.
I would like to ask about what you mentioned regarding caution.
I do not have a fever, and upon self-examination, I do not feel any lumps in the area or my neck.
However, sometimes when I open my mouth wide, I experience a slight pain.
Generally, if this is related to yawning, would it be considered a strain, or could it be some form of joint inflammation that takes a long time to heal? My friends said it usually resolves on its own in a few days.
Additionally, I have a runny nose; could this be a cold? I'm not sure if it's due to the cold weather or allergies.
To ease my concerns, would it be advisable to visit an ENT specialist to check my nose as well? Thank you for taking the time to respond!

U, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/01

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, you mentioned that sometimes the joints may experience mild inflammation, which typically improves after a period of time.
Regarding the cold symptoms, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, it is advisable to take a rapid test.
If the rapid test is negative, it is more likely to be an allergy.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/04/01

More Info

Yawning is a natural physiological response that can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain, particularly in the jaw or neck area. This discomfort can arise from a variety of factors, including muscle strain, joint issues, or even underlying medical conditions. In your case, it seems that you are experiencing mild pain when yawning, but you have not noticed any significant symptoms like fever or swelling in the neck, which is a positive sign.

When it comes to yawning-related pain, it is essential to consider the following:
1. Muscle Strain: Yawning involves the stretching of the muscles in the jaw and neck. If you yawn excessively or too forcefully, it can lead to temporary muscle strain. This type of pain usually resolves on its own within a few days. Gentle stretching and applying heat to the affected area can help alleviate discomfort.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues: The TMJ connects your jaw to your skull, and problems with this joint can cause pain when yawning or opening your mouth wide. Symptoms may include clicking or popping sounds, jaw stiffness, or pain in the jaw, neck, or even ears. If you suspect TMJ issues, it may be beneficial to consult a dentist or an oral and maxillofacial specialist.

3. Inflammation or Infection: While you mentioned not having a fever, it’s still possible that inflammation in the jaw or throat area could be contributing to your discomfort. Conditions such as sinusitis or pharyngitis can cause referred pain that might be felt when yawning. If you have nasal congestion or other allergy symptoms, it could be worth exploring further.

4. Allergies and Sinus Issues: Given that you mentioned having nasal symptoms, it’s possible that allergies or sinus congestion could be contributing to your discomfort. Allergies can lead to inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, which might make yawning feel uncomfortable. If you suspect this is the case, visiting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist could provide clarity and treatment options.

5. When to Seek Medical Advice: If the pain persists for more than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as swelling, severe headache, or difficulty swallowing), it’s essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies if necessary to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, while mild pain when yawning is often not a cause for concern and can be attributed to muscle strain or minor joint issues, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms. If the discomfort continues or you develop additional symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider, such as an ENT specialist or a dentist, would be a prudent step. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options to ensure your comfort and health.

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