Strange Clicking Noise in Skull During Physical Activity
At 25 years old and weighing 125 pounds, I consider myself to be in good overall health. However, around three months ago, I began experiencing significant tension in my neck that made me feel the need to stretch it frequently. Following what I can only describe as a particularly challenging day dealing with this tension, I woke up to discover a peculiar clicking sound emanating from the side of my skull, right above my ear—not from my ear itself. It resembles the faint clicking and echoing noises one might hear while submerged in a swimming pool, or the sound produced when two small metal spheres collide. This unsettling noise occurs whenever I jog, jump, or even pass over train tracks. I'm curious if anyone else has experienced this or knows what might be causing it?
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 2:40:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
The clicking noise in your skull that you experience during physical activity, combined with neck tension, may suggest an issue related to muscle tension, joint movement, or possibly even a benign condition like tendon snapping or joint crepitus. It's understandable to feel concerned about this unusual sound, especially since it affects your activities.
Explanation
- Muscle Tension: Your neck tension could lead to tight muscles around the jaw and surrounding areas. This tension may affect how joints move during activities, leading to clicking.
- Jaw Joint (TMJ) Issues: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), located just in front of your ear, could be a contributing factor. In some cases, tension or inflammation in this area can cause clicking sounds.
- Benign Joint Sounds: Clicking or popping noises can sometimes be normal, especially if they are not accompanied by pain or discomfort. This can be caused by tendons or ligaments moving over bones during movement.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary to note when the clicking occurs, any associated sensations, and activities performed when you notice it. Also, note if there are any changes in pain or discomfort levels.
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Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle neck and shoulder stretches to relieve tension. Simple stretches include tilting your head side to side and gently rotating your neck. Do this slowly to avoid exacerbating the tension.
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Jaw Relaxation Exercises: Try simple relaxation techniques for your jaw, such as keeping your teeth slightly apart and practicing deep breathing.
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Limit Strain: During activities that exacerbate the clicking noise, consider reducing the intensity. For example, if jogging is causing the sound, opt for a brisk walk to see if the noise diminishes.
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Hydration and Rest: Ensure you are well-hydrated and get plenty of rest, as dehydration and fatigue can contribute to muscle tension.
If the clicking continues or worsens, or if you begin to experience pain, swelling, or functional limitations, it would be advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional. They can help determine the exact cause and recommend targeted treatments.
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