[50F] Experiencing tinnitus, jaw pain, and tightness in neck

Patient Description

A 50-year-old female presents with a 2-year history of intermittent throbbing pain under the jaw, rated as a 4 out of 10 in severity, and daily tinnitus described as a loud heartbeat in the ear, rated as a 9 out of 10 in severity, which began after taking clindamycin for a sinus infection. She also experiences tightness on the left side of her neck under the ear, swelling in front of the left ear, and movable knots along the jawline that are sensitive to touch. The patient reports her jaw closing involuntarily, particularly when lying down or at traffic lights, occasionally resulting in biting her tongue. She has been diagnosed with a positive ANA and a blood clotting disorder 3 months ago, and a nasal infection 6 months ago. The patient has a history of adverse reactions to clindamycin, Percocet, and muscle relaxers. Current medications include daily Claritin, fish oil, probiotics, turmeric, Vitamin D3 with Vitamin K with MK 7, and magnesium glycinate. No chronic illnesses have been reported, and there is a family history of arthritis in a maternal grandfather.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): This condition can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, as well as difficulty opening and closing the mouth. It can also cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and swelling in front of the ear.

    • Treatment typically involves pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Tinnitus: This condition, characterized by hearing sounds that aren't actually present (like a ringing or buzzing), can be caused by a number of things, including ear infections, high blood pressure, and certain medications. It's also possible that the tinnitus is related to your TMJ disorder.

    • Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, if one can be found. Otherwise, management strategies like sound therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful.
  • Oral Ulcers: These can be caused by a number of things, including hormonal changes, stress, and certain medications. They typically resolve on their own within a week or two.

    • Treatment typically involves pain management and avoiding spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the ulcers.
  • Neck Pain: This could be due to muscle strain, poor posture, or a number of other causes. If it's associated with your jaw pain, it could also be related to TMJ disorder.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and addressing any underlying causes.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and these conditions may not be causing your symptoms. It's important to see a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Try to avoid activities that make your symptoms worse. For example, if you notice that certain movements or positions exacerbate your symptoms, try to avoid them if possible.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage your pain. However, you should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
  3. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and yoga, may help alleviate some of your symptoms. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.
  4. Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated. This can help your body function at its best and may help alleviate some of your symptoms.

What you should look out for

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

  • Severe pain that doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Sudden, severe headache
  • Sudden loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden changes in vision or speech

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare provider.

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9 mo ago


People Also Ask


What is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) and how is it treated?

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, discomfort, and difficulty in jaw movement. Treatment often includes pain management, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.


Can tinnitus be caused by medications, and how is it managed?

Yes, tinnitus can be caused by certain medications, including antibiotics like clindamycin. Management involves addressing the underlying cause if possible, and using strategies like sound therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to cope with the symptoms.


What are the common causes of neck pain and how can it be treated?

Neck pain can be caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or conditions like TMJ disorder. Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and addressing any underlying causes.


How can stress management techniques help with symptoms like jaw pain and tinnitus?

Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and yoga, can help alleviate symptoms by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, which may help with conditions like jaw pain and tinnitus.

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