headache and jaw pain covid
the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted individuals' physical and mental health, with symptoms ranging from fever and coughing to anxiety and depression. one of the most common complaints during the pandemic was headaches, particularly associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). while the causes of these headaches are multifaceted, including stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, the increase in jaw pain and TMJ disorders has been attributed to the psychological effects of the pandemic.
COVID-19 has caused widespread stress and anxiety, leading to increased bruxism, which is the grinding of the teeth. this may have been exacerbated by the fear of getting sick, loneliness, and isolation. teeth grinding places significant pressure on the TMJ and can result in jaw pain, soreness, and clicking sounds.此外，长时间佩戴口罩也可能导致口腔肌肉紧张和疼痛。
the American Dental Association (ada) reports that during the first year of the pandemic, there was a nearly 60% increase in cases of patients reporting jaw pain and clenching issues. jaw pain can be the result of overworked and tired jaw muscles, often caused by stress and anxiety. other symptoms associated with TMJ disorders include:
- aching pain in and around the ear
- difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
- dull headaches
- jaw pain and tenderness
- limited range of motion when opening your mouth
if left untreated, jaw pain can lead to further complications, including damaged teeth, sensitive teeth, and increased TMJ pain. the ada suggests that patients should consult with their dentists for further evaluation and treatment. a dentist may recommend a night guard or custom oral appliance to protect against teeth grinding and clenching, and to relieve jaw pain and soreness.
the pandemic has also disrupted traditional dental care, with many practices closed or operating at reduced capacity. this has left many individuals without access to proper dental care and treatment for their TMJ disorders. the ada emphasizes the importance of prioritizing routine dental check-ups and maintenance to prevent the worsening of TMJ disorders and to ensure the overall well-being of individuals., the increase in headache and jaw pain during the COVID-19 pandemic is likely due to the psychological effects of the pandemic. stress and anxiety have led to a rise in teeth grinding and clenching, causing TMJ disorders. the ada recommends consulting with dentists and seeking professional treatment to alleviate jaw pain and relieve the effects of stress and anxiety.
