Do you have TMJ disorder and now have begun having trouble breathing through your nose?
Temporomandibular joint disorder causes many more symptoms than just jaw clicking and jaw pain.
“TMJ disorders are usually not associated with interfering with nasal breathing,” says Brijesh Chandwani, DMD, BDS, Diplomate, American Board of Orofacial Pain, with Connecticut & NY TMJ.
“Some patients do feel the pain from TMJ disorders (muscle or joint disorder) in the area, and if the pain is intense or pressure-like, patients do sometimes perceive it as troubled breathing.
“When pain from TMJ disorders is first experienced, it can also cause anxiety to most people, and depending on the personality of the person, panic attacks could cause troubled breathing.”
A panic attack causes troubled breathing due to the body’s intense stress response.
During a panic attack, the autonomic nervous system triggers rapid, shallow breathing or hyperventilation, leading to an imbalance in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
This can cause a sensation of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Additionally, heightened anxiety and muscle tension contribute to the feeling of not being able to breathe easily.
Other Kinds of Breathing Troubles
If you’ve been feeling short of breath recently but don’t experience any nasal congestion or plugging, it’s likely that your symptom isn’t related to your nose.
Shortness of breath without nasal symptoms could be due to other underlying issues, such as respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
However, if you do notice an obstruction, blockage or a stuffy feeling when you breathe through your nose, this might indicate a sinus problem.
In such cases, it’s a good idea to consult an ear, nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist).
They can help determine the cause of your nasal congestion and recommend appropriate treatment.
The bottom line is that TMJ disorder does not interfere with the ability to breathe or directly cause shortness of breath or quick fatigue from exertion.
What can actually interfere with air getting through the nasal passages, however, is a nasal polyp.
Dr. Chandwani has 10+ years of experience focusing on TMJ disorders and sleep disorders.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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