Do you have a nagging sensation of fluid buildup in one or both ears?

Have you been diagnosed with TMJ disorder and are wondering if there’s a connection?

Sometimes, when one feels as though there’s a little fluid in their ears, there really is – e.g., after swimming or washing one’s hair.

But what about in the absence of these activities?

“No — TMJ disorders do not cause fluid buildup, but patients suffering from TMJ disorders often have stuffiness in their ears and a feeling of ‘fluid’ in the ears,” explains Brijesh Chandwani, DMD, BDS, Diplomate, American Board of Orofacial Pain, with Connecticut & NY TMJ.

“Muscles close to the joint structures (lateral pterygoids and medial pterygoid) can refer discomfort (pain or fluid sensation) to the ear region quite commonly.”

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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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Top image: Shutterstock/rdrgraphe