Don't ignore pain below your right jaw!

Don't ignore pain below your right jaw!

Have you ever experienced pain below your right jaw? Such pain may temporarily disappear, but if it persists or occurs repeatedly, it is important to identify the cause. Pain below the jaw can be caused by various factors, and neglecting it may lead to more serious health problems.

First, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). The temporomandibular joint is a joint that plays an important role in chewing food and speaking, and problems can arise due to stress, overuse, malocclusion, and other factors. TMJ disorder can cause symptoms such as pain, clicking sounds in the jaw, or difficulty opening the mouth. If these symptoms appear, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Second, it is a salivary gland problem. Important salivary glands are located below the jaw that secrete saliva. If inflammation or stones develop in the salivary glands, pain can occur. In particular, when inflammation occurs in the salivary glands, swelling and pain appear, and dry mouth or abnormal saliva secretion may accompany it. In this case, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist for appropriate treatment.

Third, lymph node inflammation. Lymph nodes are located below the jaw and are an important part of the body's immune system. When infection or inflammation occurs, the lymph nodes may swell and cause pain. If jaw pain appears along with symptoms such as a cold or sore throat, lymph node inflammation may be suspected. In this case, adequate rest, fluid intake, and antibiotic treatment if necessary may be required.