Facial Pain

Longterm inflammation of the lining of the sinuses and nose can lead to obstruction of the flow of secretions from the sinuses. This trapped fluid causes increased pressure to develop with the sinus leading to pain. Diagnosis is made from history and examination of the nose with either a flexible or rigid camera. A CT scan  is often performed to visualise the parts if the sinus not visible with the camera. Treatment often includes steroid nasal sprays and washing the sinuses with salt water. Surgery can be performed to aid the drainage of secretions and allow access for the nasal steroids. 

Facial pain from acute rhinosinusitis is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. The infection leads to swelling if the lining of the nose and sinuses leading to obstruction off the flow of secretions the sinuses naturally produce. Whilst this condition is often self limiting, the duration of symptoms can be shortened with various medications and very occasionally a course of antibiotics.

It can be difficult to identify the source of facial pain. Especially when the pain is associated with the roots of teeth, which are closely associatiated with the sinus behind the cheeks or the teeth at the very back of the mouth. Pain from a dental origin is often mistook for sinus disease or earache and thorough examination and a careful history is required to differentiate and arrange appropriate treatment. 

The jaw joint is constantly in use, be it from talking, eating or yawning.  This joint is vunerable to 'wear and tear' just like any other. Pain from the TMJ is often mistaken for earache, toothache or migraine. Examination of the mouth, joint and ear are all important to help identify the cause and commence treatment. 

The nerve which supplies the sensation to the face can very occasionally cause a intermittent severe pain over part of the face. This pain can last from seconds to hours and often comes in attacks lasting several weeks with periods of relief inbetween. The pain usually occurs over one side of the face.

Inflammation of the lining of a blood vessel in the side of the face can lead to pain often mistaken for TMJ pain or earache. The pain will often worsen with talking or eating. This pain is a sign of a more widespread condition called giant cell arteritis.