Both sides of the chin?
I have swelling and tenderness on both sides of my jaw, which then spreads to my earlobes, neck, and shoulders, causing soreness.
My mouth feels slightly sore.
Occasionally, I experience an inexplicable itching sensation from above my shoulders to both sides of my Adam's apple, and I feel generally unwell.
This has been going on for over a week, and the soreness seems to have decreased a bit, but I still feel a sense of pressure in my jaw.
Now, on the left side of my right submandibular gland, a small lump the size of a mung bean has appeared.
Is this related to the unexplained itching? The soreness on the right side has now become more painful than it was before; when it’s not painful, it itches.
I am very worried and have already made an appointment to see a doctor next week (it will be exactly one month).
Jiànkāng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/04/11
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, please remind me that the symptoms have persisted for a month, and I have already asked about them on the Taiwan e-Hospital platform.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Jian-Zhi, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University.
Reply Date: 2010/04/11
More Info
Jaw pain and discomfort can arise from a variety of causes, and it’s important to understand when to seek care from an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. Based on your symptoms, which include pain and swelling on both sides of the jaw, discomfort radiating to the earlobes, neck, and shoulders, as well as a new lump on the right side of your jaw, it is advisable to consult with an ENT specialist sooner rather than later.
Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Jaw Pain and Discomfort: The pain you are experiencing could be related to several conditions, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, dental issues, or even sinus problems. TMJ disorders can cause pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort that radiates to the neck and shoulders.
2. Swelling and Lumps: The appearance of a lump the size of a green bean on the right side of your jaw is concerning. This could be a swollen lymph node, a cyst, or even an infection. Lymph nodes can swell in response to infection or inflammation, and they are often palpable when they are enlarged.
3. Itching Sensation: The "mysterious" itching you describe could be related to nerve irritation or inflammation in the area. It’s not uncommon for conditions affecting the jaw to also cause sensations in nearby regions, including the throat and shoulders.
4. Duration of Symptoms: Since your symptoms have persisted for over a week, it is crucial to seek medical attention. While some conditions may resolve on their own, persistent pain and the development of new symptoms (like the lump) warrant further investigation.
When to Seek ENT Care
You should seek care from an ENT specialist if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain does not improve or worsens over time, it is essential to have it evaluated.
- New Symptoms: The emergence of a lump or swelling, especially if it is painful or growing, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
- Difficulty Opening Your Mouth: If you find it hard to open your mouth fully or experience locking of the jaw, this could indicate a TMJ disorder or other serious conditions.
- Fever or Other Systemic Symptoms: If you develop a fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms, this could indicate an infection that requires prompt treatment.
- Changes in Sensation: If you experience numbness, tingling, or significant changes in sensation in your jaw or face, this could indicate nerve involvement.
Next Steps
Since you already have an appointment scheduled for next week, it’s important to prepare for that visit. Here are some tips:
- Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they started, their intensity, and any factors that seem to worsen or alleviate them.
- List Questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as potential causes of your symptoms, necessary tests, and treatment options.
- Medical History: Be ready to discuss your medical history, including any previous jaw or dental issues, recent infections, or other health conditions.
Conclusion
Your symptoms, particularly the combination of jaw pain, swelling, and the new lump, should not be taken lightly. It’s good that you have already made an appointment with a doctor. In the meantime, try to avoid any activities that may exacerbate your symptoms, such as chewing hard foods or clenching your jaw. If your symptoms worsen before your appointment, consider seeking immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these concerns early can lead to better outcomes.
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