Saturday, February 12, 2011 lynjimm asks

Q: is ms known to cause jaw problems?

my husband has been diagnosed with chronic progressive ms some 26 years ago the last couple of days, he has complained of jaw pain on the left side
Answer This
Answers (2)
Amy Gurowitz, Health Guide
2/12/11 10:48pm

Hi Lynjimm,

I'm sorry to hear of your husband's pain. Because MS can cause such a wide variety of symptoms, it is probably best to ask his neurologist. I have had a certain amount of pain due to spasticity; I suppose that can happen wherever there are muscles... so it may be.

Good luck... I hope he finds relief.

Keep us posted.

~Amy

Reply
Vicki, Health Guide
2/13/11 9:36am

Hi Lynjimm,

Let me add to Amy's answer. Yes, spasms which cause pain can happen anywhere. I was surprised to find spasms can even happen in the eye. Of course your husband's doctor will be the best to answer your question. In MS it can be either musculo skeletal or neuropathic pain, so it covers, everywhere muscles, bones, or nerves go, and it seems to me that's everywhere.

 


There are several reasons for facial pain -

One affects the triigeminal nerve, and it can seem to be concentrated in the jaw. It is excrutiating pain that can be triggered by the simplest things like brushing teeth, eating, and even breathing. Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), also known as Tic Doloreux,  is actually a distinct condition, but 4-10% of MSers experience it.


Another distinct condition that can affect MSers is TMJ or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder can affect ligaments of the temporomandibular joint or muscles used to chew.


Do you clench your jaw?


There are probably other reasons, but these are some. Again, the best answer, and possibly even satisfatory treatment, is available from your husband's doctor.


Good luck and let us know what you learn.

Reply
Answer This

Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (1954) >
By lynjimm— Last Modified: 02/13/11, First Published: 02/12/11