[48F] Experiencing jaw pain, paresthesia, and various systemic symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): This condition affects the joint that connects your jaw to the side of your head. It can cause pain in the jaw and ear, difficulty and pain when chewing, and increased salivation.

  • Treatment typically involves pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, forgetfulness, and brain fog.

  • Treatment usually involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone.

• Tinnitus: This is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. It's a common problem and can be caused by age-related hearing loss, ear injury or a circulatory system disorder.

  • Treatment can involve addressing any underlying causes, noise suppression techniques, and medications.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This results from damage to the peripheral nerves and can cause weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.

  • Treatment typically involves managing the symptoms and preventing further damage.

What you can do

1. Consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.
2. Try some relaxation techniques to help manage your tinnitus. This could include deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
3. For your jaw pain, try to avoid hard foods and excessive jaw movements (like yawning, loud singing, and gum chewing).
4. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when each symptom occurs, its severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your doctor diagnose your condition.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms
• If your jaw pain becomes severe or if you're unable to open or close your jaw
• If your hair loss is accompanied by scalp redness, scaling, or pain
• If your forgetfulness or brain fog affects your daily life

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.