Suggest Treatment For Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome

Posted on Sat, 10 Dec 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 10 Dec 2016 Answered on

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : i had a head cold and sinus a couple months ago since then ive had what felt like ear and jaw soarness(not much pain) more of a nuscence an also some very mild throat soarness but not much-- mostly on the right side i was given antibiotics a month ago and noting changed---it seems every afternoon my temp (which i think averages around 98.7) goes up sometimes to 99.5 then an hour or 4 hours later it goes back down it varies---mind u non of this is really pain full or inhibiting me just more of a nuscence--my right ear always feels like there is slight pressure behind it--but its never red or enflammed according to the doctor--ive had my teeth x-rayed and they said my teeth look ok--any ideas--thanx for any help

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Temperomandibular arthritis most likely.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query. If you have any nasal congestion or nasal block then that is the most likely cause. Nasal congestion can cause blockade of auditory tube and cause tension/pressure effect inside middle ear and gives such pain. In such case, using nasal decongestant sprays for short term like 7 to 10 days will be helpful.

If that is not present, then your most likely cause is temporomandibular arthritis. For this you can do following measures :

Avoid chewing hard food items on that side. Give warm and cold compress alternatively. You can also take NSAIDs like Ibuprofen (Motrin) 400mg three times daily after food for next 2-3 days. If there is no improvement then local injection of corticosteroids will be helpful (under your treating doctor's supervision).

Let me know if anything's not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee