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Severe Pain on the Right Side of My Face for Two Days

2/4/2026, 12:40:19 AMMale25-34

Hello, I’m a 26-year-old female, and I’ve been enduring significant jaw pain for about five years due to excessive clenching. I consulted a healthcare professional once, and they indicated that there might be an issue with my joints. Usually, I deal with daily discomfort and pressure in my jaw; however, for the past two days, the right side of my face has experienced intense pain. It feels as though the area near my nose is under extreme pressure, almost like it could burst. My teeth are incredibly sensitive, and I can sense a discomforting line extending along the right side of my face. I also experienced a bit of dizziness today. I am in the process of scheduling an appointment, but the earliest slot is a week away. My friends advise that this isn't an emergency situation, but the pain is unbearable, and I’ve never gone through anything like this previously. Additionally, there are no visible signs of swelling; all symptoms seem to be internal. Can anyone offer guidance?

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Answers (1)

Cony

2/4/2026, 12:40:37 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort that is concerning, especially with the recent increase in pain and sensitivity on the right side of your face. While you mentioned a history of jaw clenching and some initial advice on potential joint issues, the recent intensity of your symptoms warrants careful attention.

Key Points:

  • Intense jaw pain, especially combined with dizziness and sensitivity, can indicate a possible dental issue, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, or even sinus problems.
  • Immediate steps focus on symptom management while waiting for your appointment.

Explanation: Your history of jaw clenching could be contributing to increased tension or inflammation in the jaw joint, which may explain the severe pain you're experiencing. Sensitivity in your teeth could also suggest a dental issue or nerve involvement. The dizziness could be related to pain or tension in the head and neck area, which often affects balance. While it’s good that you’re scheduling a follow-up, it’s important to manage your symptoms in the meantime.

Prioritized Next Steps:

  1. Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relief medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the dosing instructions on the label. This can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
  2. Cold Compresses: Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour if needed. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
  3. Gentle Mouth Movements: Avoid any hard foods or excessive jaw movements (like yawning widely) to minimize strain on your jaw.
  4. Hydrate and Rest: Ensure you’re drinking water and resting adequately. Stress can also exacerbate jaw tightness, so try to engage in relaxing activities, such as deep breathing or gentle yoga.
  5. Track Symptoms: Keep a log of your pain levels, any triggers, and associated symptoms (like dizziness), which can be helpful when you do see your healthcare provider.

If your symptoms worsen, especially if you experience severe dizziness, difficulty in breathing, or new symptoms like fever, it might be worth seeking more immediate medical attention, despite the scheduled appointment.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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