[38F] With acute jaw pain and headaches

What might be happening

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

Jaw Pain Near Ear

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD): This condition can cause sharp pain near the ear when opening the mouth wide, difficulty moving the jaw, and headaches. TMJ disorders can be triggered by stress, arthritis, or jaw injury.
• Arthritis: Given your history of body stiffness and aches, arthritis could be affecting your jaw joint, leading to pain and difficulty in movement.

Lump Above Knee

• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac) near the knee joint can cause a lump and pain.
• Lipoma: A benign fatty lump that can appear under the skin and is usually painless.
• Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that can develop near joints or tendons.

Headaches

• Tension Headaches: Often caused by stress or muscle tension, which could be related to your jaw pain and difficulty moving your jaw.
• Referred Pain: Pain from the jaw can sometimes be referred to the temples, causing headaches.

General Stiffness and Aches

• Arthritis: This could explain your body stiffness and aches, especially if it worsens at night and in the morning.

What you can do

Jaw Pain Near Ear

• See a Doctor: It's important to consult a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend imaging tests or refer you to a specialist.
• Home Care:
  • Apply a warm compress to the affected area to relieve pain.
  • Avoid hard or chewy foods that can strain your jaw.
  • Practice gentle jaw exercises to improve mobility.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like Aleve can help, but consult your doctor for long-term use.

Lump Above Knee

• See a Doctor: A healthcare provider can evaluate the lump to determine its cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Home Care:
  • Avoid activities that put strain on your knee.
  • Apply ice to reduce any swelling.

Headaches

• See a Doctor: Given the association with your jaw pain, a healthcare provider can help determine the cause and recommend treatment.
• Home Care:
  • Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but consult your doctor for long-term use.

General Stiffness and Aches

• See a Doctor: A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and may recommend tests to diagnose arthritis or other conditions.
• Home Care:
  • Gentle stretching exercises can help improve flexibility.
  • Warm baths or heating pads can relieve stiffness and pain.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of underlying conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Increased pain or swelling in the jaw or knee.
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Severe headaches that do not improve with over-the-counter medications.
• Any new or worsening symptoms.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.