Pain experienced in the jaw during a cold is often related to referred pain from sinus congestion or muscle tension. Inflammation and pressure within the sinus cavities, particularly the maxillary sinuses located near the upper jaw, can irritate nearby nerves, leading to the sensation of discomfort radiating to the jaw area. Additionally, the body’s response to illness, such as increased muscle tension from shivering or discomfort, may contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) strain, further exacerbating jaw pain.
Understanding the underlying causes of jaw discomfort during a cold allows for more targeted symptom management. Recognizing the connection between sinus pressure, muscle tension, and nerve pathways enables individuals to differentiate between cold-related pain and other potential dental or TMJ disorders, facilitating appropriate self-care measures or seeking professional medical advice. Historically, remedies for cold symptoms have often indirectly addressed related discomforts, though the specific mechanisms causing referred pain may not have been fully understood until advancements in anatomical and neurological knowledge.