Symptoms of A TMJ Flare-Up
Symptoms of TMJ flare-ups can come and go, affecting your ability to yawn, eat, talk, and even sleep. These symptoms include:
- Pain and discomfort in the jaw
- Intense migraines and headaches
- Locking or popping of your jaw when you talk, eat, chew, or open your mouth
- Trouble opening or moving the mouth due to a misaligned jaw
- Visible inflammation and swelling of the TMJ and facial muscles
- Muscle spasm on the affected side of the face
- Ringing in the ears
- Ear pain
- Neck pain
- Toothaches
TMJ flare-ups can last between a few hours to several days. Left untreated, it can become chronic and debilitating. Proper diagnosis of root causes and appropriate treatments can reduce the intensity and duration of TMJ flare-ups.
How to Prevent A TMJ Flare-Up
There are multiple ways you can prevent a TMJ flare-up from occurring. These tips are also useful for reducing the intensity and duration of a flare-up if you are currently suffering from one.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress can lead to teeth grinding or teeth clenching. This leads to pressure and strain on the TMJ and other facial muscles. To reduce stress, try meditation or dedicate some time to self-care.
Eat Softer Food
Eating chewy, hard, or gummy foods can irritate the TMJ and facial muscles, leading to inflammation and a TMJ flare-up. Make sure to eat softer foods so you do not overwork your TMJ.
Drink More Water
When you are dehydrated, your joints suffer from reduced lubrication, which can lead to aggravation and inflammation. Make sure to drink eight glasses of water a day and avoid caffeine. You can also eat food with high water content, such as watermelon and tomatoes.
Combat TMJ Flare-Ups with Head Pain Institute
Are you currently suffering from jaw pain? It can be difficult to tell if you’re suffering from a TMJ flare-up or a separate condition. In order to receive the right treatment, it is important to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider so you can receive a proper diagnosis. Let the Head Pain Institute diagnose your TMJ problem.
Head Pain Institute is a leading provider of the treatment of TMJ flare-ups and disorders. Our team of specialists will be able to treat TMJ flare-ups as well as other forms of neck, head, jaw, or ear pain. If you have any questions regarding TMJ flare-ups and our treatment options, feel free to reach out to us. Don’t delay in achieving long-term relief! Let us help you to live a life free from pain and discomfort.
