Sinus and TMJ issues with AxSpA
As the wet cold has really rolled in this season, I find that my sinuses and TMJ are giving me more issues than most winters. The headaches and facial pain is making me miserable. Is this the same for others in the spondylitis community?
I've had TMJ since childhood as well and is thought to be related to inflammation due to anky spond. This study from 2016 states, "Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement in AS varies from 4% to 35%."
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5290794/#:~:text=Ankylosing%20spondylitis%20(AS)%20is%20a,from%204%25%20to%2035%25
Oh yes! I forgot I had a set of Gua Sha stone set. I need to utilize these as it may relieve the pain in this area. Thanks for the reminder- Rebecca 
Hi
,
I am having a lot of sinus issues this winter as well, sorry to hear that the same is happening for you!
To be honest I didn't really think about it being related to my AS before reading this, but I suppose I should have as this condition loves to get involved with as many parts of the body as possible!
I think I have some inflammation in mine at the moment as my eyes and nose are feeling a little bit puffy and my snot levels are at a very unattractive level!
I think maybe I should ask my rheumatologist about these things, has yours told you anything about a link between these issues and AS?
Hope that your issues clear up soon!
Wishing you well,
James (Community Member)
I’ve had TMJ since even before I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, and my dad has it super badly. My partner always points out when my jaw is clicking wildly! I haven’t had any sinus issues, but my jaw is often painful and clicking or out of alignment. I hear this is pretty common for ankylosing. One thing that I have been doing is using a gua sha stone and face roller on my jaw and face. It helps loosen it all up.
