Jaw clicking when eating, what should I do?

[Vaggers]

I have developed a clicking and painful jaw, first one side and now both sides. I am aware that this maybe a symptom of gca but, at the moment, it is my only symptom. Should I see my GP on Monday or is it more urgent than this?

Also, I missed my MTX last Monday as I had the norovirus. I have now developed a sore throat and cold symptoms, is it ok to miss this Mondays MTX as well. Thankyou.

[Blearyeyed]

I think as you have so much going on it would be worth going in and seeing the GP on Monday to discuss it even if they then recommend that you don't take the MTX or you choose not too.

There are lots of reasons for a clicking jaw including a TMJ , some minor jaw changes from being recently sick , vomiting and temporarily displace your jaw until you recover fully, also the affect of steroids on Fat Distribution and collagen in the face can bring a temporary change in muscle strength that can occasionally cause clicking or some minor pain.

Of course , there is always GCA , and you should keep an eye out for its symptoms if you already suffer with PMR , so that is another good reason to get it checked out as soon as possible.

Go in Monday , it may also help you relax and gain some reassurance before Xmas

[Vaggers in reply to Blearyeyed]

Thankyou so much. Extremely helpful advice. It fits my agenda too, I have so much to do this weekend!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

A clicking jaw is not really a sign of GCA. And the painful bit must be in context: it is what is called claudication pain which appears while you are chewing or speaking a lot and then goes away when you stop. You can try to replicate it by chewing gum for 3 minutes, if pain develops but then goes when you stop it is a sign you should discuss with your doctor.

As Bee says - speak to your GP. As for the mtx - if you now have a cold they may well say not to take it. Did your rheumatologist not give you instructions?

[Vaggers in reply to PMRpro]

I havent seen my rheumatologist for a month and I am sure I have been told what to do but there is so much to remember especially as I have other medical problems as well! Basically, if i have infection/virus, do not take MTX. So I didnt take it last week as I had norovirus and now I wont be taking it this week as it looks as though I am getting a chest infection. Is it ok to NOT take MTX for two weeks running? My rheumatology helpline is understaffed so can take up to two days to get back to me.

The bilateral jaw pain/clicking only occurs when I am eating then stops and doesnt bother me otherwise. Will try and see GP on Monday, who must, by now, wanting to run and hide when he sees I am his next patient!!, xx

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Vaggers]

It's fine to not take mtx for a couple of weeks if you have an infection - or just delay it a day or so. If you have been on mtx a long time and been able to reduce the pred dose you might find you get a bit of a flare but I think the effect of mtx lasts a few weeks - not like pred.

Seeing you is what your GP gets paid for!!!

MrsNails here is the resident patient expert on mtx - hopefully she will see your question.

[Vaggers in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks PMR. Fingers crossed I dont get a flare