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Damn TMJ




I have had temporomadibular joint (TMJ) disorder for a helluva long time... decades. Typically I notice no effects because I am religious about wearing a bite splint. The worst of the symptoms if I wear my bite splint is typically just having a tired jaw at the end of the day. But, for the last week or so, my TMJ has been a thorn in my side. My jaws ache, and it affects my ears and neck as well. It hurts so badly right now that I can hardly stand it.

I do not know why my TMJ is acting up so much. I am not more stressed than usual. My only inkling is that perhaps I have a middle or inner ear infection that is quite severe. My reasoning behind this is that both my wife and I came down with identical colds upon our return from the Grand Canyon in July. Both of us took a while to feel better, but now about 2 weeks ago, my wife came down with severe ear infections and has been on two courses of antibiotics. I am wondering if I am experiencing the same thing... and also if it may be a result of something we were exposed to on our trip?

I am not sure, but perhaps I should go to my doctor to have my ears examined. I strenuously resist going to the doctor, but am thinking I may do so in the morning if this does not subside.

PipeTobacco