I see a lot of posts about ear ringing (which I have definitely struggled with in the past).
But, my issue for past several months has been external ear pain.
Anyone else?
It's very hard to describe, almost like they are numb, but a painful numbness?
Just curious because this is driving me up a wall.
Note: This symptom has been a constant regardless of the meds.
Posted by bcb1200 (Member # 25745) on :
I can't say I have this. Most of my symptoms are ear-related, and I do get ear pain from time to time (near eardrum like an ear ache.) but not what you describe.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Do you have TMJ problems? Bruxism (grinding teeth in sleep)?
If so, it will cause external ear pain. Magnesium may be deficient. Supplementing with magnesium helps TMJ/Bruxism and also helps muscles to relax.
See what Bleiweiss has to say about the cranial nerves and how they are affected by lyme. Cranial nerve VII (affects ears). Actually CN VI-VIII can affect ears in various ways. --------------
When to Suspect Lyme - by John D. Bleiweiss, M.D. -
Posted by bcb1200 (Member # 25745) on :
I have TMJ...in fact I thought my problems were originally TMJ. I had a jaw injury way back in college. It wasn't bothering me, but my Chiro adjusted it in February (BIG MISTAKE)and I got worse afterwards. My NEW Chiro says the joint is in the right position and healing. I now wear a splint to help which I hope to give up in another month.
I still wonder if my ear symptoms are really LYme, or are they TMJ. I think it may be a bit of TMJ..but Lyme is the root.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- As far as night (&/or day) splints go, the harder acrylic ones are best. Those with the consistency of "gummy bears" often get all chewed up during sleep.
Biofeedback and physical therapy "re-education" is also helpful so as to evaluate how the head, neck, jaw work at rest and while talking and eating. Some P.T.s have special training in this area.
While most insurance does not cover TMJ, you may be able to have insurance cover biofeedback for "migraine pain" and find someone who knows all about TMJ.
Also look to FELDENKRAIS method for body education. Just google to find someone in your area.
And, for anyone with neck, head or ear pain: try a new pillow. Air it out first for while if foam, but pillows can cause lots of problems. Not nearly as much as the way we hold stress, or lack of enough magnesium, but a bad pillow can spell trouble. -
Posted by bcb1200 (Member # 25745) on :
Yes...I have a MORA acrylic splint from Tufts Craniofacial Pain center. Cost me a pretty penny, but is helping.
Posted by Carol in PA (Member # 5338) on :