[32F] Experiencing headaches, facial pain, and other symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): This condition affects the joint that connects your jaw to the side of your head. It can cause pain in your jaw, face, and ear, as well as headaches. The swelling on the side of your face and the pain when moving your jaw could be due to inflammation in this joint.

  • Treatment typically includes pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or a mouth guard to prevent teeth grinding. Physical therapy and certain exercises could also help.

• Trigeminal Neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from your face to your brain. It can cause severe facial pain that might feel like a shock or burning sensation. It's usually triggered by normal activities like eating, talking, or brushing your teeth.

  • Treatment usually involves medications to lessen or block the pain signals sent to your brain.

• Infection: The swollen lymph node could be a sign of an infection. Infections in the ear or the salivary glands can cause pain and swelling in the face and neck. The tingling in your tongue could also be due to an oral infection.

  • Treatment for an infection typically involves antibiotics.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help with the pain and swelling.
2. Try to rest your jaw as much as possible. Avoid chewing gum and eating hard foods.
3. Apply a warm compress to the painful areas to help relieve pain.
4. Stay hydrated and maintain good oral hygiene to help prevent infections.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. These could include:

• Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medications
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Fever, chills, or other signs of an infection
• Changes in your hearing or vision

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.