Pain under ear when eating?!


Question: I've had this problem off and on (usually "off") for as long as I can remember. It's never been a major problem, so I've never talked to a doctor about it. But it's sticking around longer than usual this time and it's exceptionally annoying.
Anyhow.. it's a really sharp pain under my right ear whenever I eat something (especially something sweet but it occurs now with other foods as well). Afterwards it feels like my ear is draining but I never have any real proof if it is.
I have NO teeth (long story- but I had this problem when I did have them too) so I don't have any exposed nerves or anything. I also have no cuts or sores in my mouth so I'm really confused.
If anyone knows what this is, do you know how I can make it go away or feel better lol?

Other things that might be important... I've been REALLY tired lately (16 hours a day is not enough)- but I'm addicted to dreaming and I take Provigil to keep me awake but ran out.
My allergies are also flaring.
I also have slight TMJ.


Answers: I've had this problem off and on (usually "off") for as long as I can remember. It's never been a major problem, so I've never talked to a doctor about it. But it's sticking around longer than usual this time and it's exceptionally annoying.
Anyhow.. it's a really sharp pain under my right ear whenever I eat something (especially something sweet but it occurs now with other foods as well). Afterwards it feels like my ear is draining but I never have any real proof if it is.
I have NO teeth (long story- but I had this problem when I did have them too) so I don't have any exposed nerves or anything. I also have no cuts or sores in my mouth so I'm really confused.
If anyone knows what this is, do you know how I can make it go away or feel better lol?

Other things that might be important... I've been REALLY tired lately (16 hours a day is not enough)- but I'm addicted to dreaming and I take Provigil to keep me awake but ran out.
My allergies are also flaring.
I also have slight TMJ.

My wife occasionally has the same symptom. She thought hers was TMJ but a good doctor figured out that one of her saliva tubes (not the correct name but she is not here and I can't remember) was not draining properly. He was able to take a very slender 5" plastic straw like object and actually poke it into this duct (I was watching) and clear out the clog. Kind of like a roto-rooter would do for your drain pipes. Anyway, he told her to suck on sour candy every now and then and that would help. She has and it has helped. She prefers Jolly Ranchers :) I'm not sure if this is what you have, but it sounds very similar, and what could a few hard candies hurt?

Not sure but there could be a gland there.

Sounds like you have already figured out your problem with your allergies and TMJ. Now you need to contact a doctor but until then, try these home remedies. Also try Ibuprofen to help with the pain.

Temporary TMJ Symptom Relief
Many self-help remedies have been suggested to treat TMJ symptoms, but be aware that these remedies do not treat the cause. In fact, TMJ treatment through the right dentist may be less costly, less time intensive and can produce a fully satisfactory result.

Although the following self-help remedies do not treat TMJ long-term, temporary relief may be found:

Heat and Cold Packs: Heat and cold packs applied to the side of the face and temple for 10 minute intervals may reduce the intensity of the pain affecting the muscles and surrounding area of the jaw.

Limit Jaw Movement: It is important to avoid large movement of the jaw such as singing and wide yawning. Also, do not apply pressure with your hand against your jaw for an extended time period during sleep. Limit the pressure you apply with a phone receiver.

Diet: Choose soft food and stay away from foods requiring repetitive chewing or the mouth to open wide. In particular, avoid chewing gum, taffy, pretzels and raw carrots.

Dental Treatment: Continue to receive dental treatment for any teeth requiring restoration. Tooth decay may affect the bite, a contributing factor to TMJ.

does it hurt? i like cheese





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