Unexplained Jaw and Ear Issues
I’m 17 years old, weigh 60 kg, and stand at 176 cm tall. Additionally, I have Hashimoto's disease and do not currently take any medications. The issue seems to be isolated to the right side of my face. It began with my jaw producing an unusual sound whenever I open it wide. It feels as if it is disconnecting from my face, accompanied by a strange noise reminiscent of trying to pull apart two sheets of paper that are adhered together with strong glue. This sensation is solely present in the right side of my jaw. Shortly after, similar symptoms developed with my ear. For the past few days, I’ve noticed that upon waking, my right ear appears to stop functioning completely. To remedy this, I find myself moving it in circular motions while applying pressure with my thumb to the area behind my ear. Strangely enough, I seem to have acquired a peculiar ability: the power to silence all sounds in my right ear by merely clicking in a specific spot, behind my ear, in the little cavity between my jaw and the back of my head. I am curious to understand what might be causing these symptoms and whether I should consider seeking medical assistance. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I hope you have a great day!
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 8:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms involving the jaw and ear on the right side of your face may be related to a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which can cause issues like noises, discomfort, or altered movement of the jaw. The additional sensations in your ear—such as hearing changes—could be connected as well. Given your background with Hashimoto's disease, it is also worth considering how autoimmune conditions can impact various body systems.
Here’s a clearer breakdown of what you might be experiencing:
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Jaw Symptoms: The unusual sound when opening your jaw and the sensation of it "disconnecting" may indicate TMJ dysfunction. This can happen due to stress, grinding your teeth (bruxism), or misalignment of the jaw.
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Ear Issues: The feelings of your ear “stopping” or making noises in response to movement could be related to the Eustachian tube (which helps regulate ear pressure) being affected, possibly due to muscle tension or the jaw mechanics.
Next Steps:
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Self-Care and Observation:
- Avoid hard or chewy foods that may stress your jaw.
- Incorporate gentle jaw exercises: Carefully open and close your mouth while ensuring the movement feels comfortable.
- Use a warm compress on the area of your jaw to help with any muscle tension.
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Keep a Symptom Diary:
- Track your symptoms: Note when they occur, their severity, and any activities that might improve or worsen them. This can provide useful information if you decide to seek medical advice later.
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Consider Stress Management:
- Since TMJ symptoms can be exacerbated by stress, consider activities that promote relaxation, like deep-breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness.
When to Be More Concerned:
- If your symptoms worsen, if you experience persistent pain, hearing loss, or if there are new symptoms such as swelling or fever, it would be wise to reach out to a healthcare provider for an evaluation.
It's great that you are taking the time to understand your body better, and taking these initial steps can help you manage your symptoms effectively. Please feel free to reach out if you have more questions, and take care!
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