Weird Problems with my Jaw?

Question

I've had problems opening my mouth currently im down to 2 cm in width which is how much i can open my mouth. The weirdest thing is i dont have any swells in the muscle of my jaw i've had no accidents but i did recall getting a splinter into my palm and removed that chip of wood, went to bed and found that when i tried to open my mouth it hurt like hell and it's locking down. I can't eat a damn thing and i can't work like this cause my job is depending on singing. My damn wife say's i dont need a doctor but i really feel like going so is she wrong or should i really really be getting to the hospital cause its been like 4 days and the condition is getting worse from ear aches to slight head aches and feeling very weak... =(

Answer 1

I agree with the person that said it could be tetnus, and if so you definitely need to see a doctor. If you have not been able to eat for 4 days, this might account for the headache and weakness (as when your glycogen stores are low, you would experience these effects).
The other possibility is Tempomandibular Joint (TMJ)Dysfunction, which is a condition where your jaw can lock up and be quite painful. Sometimes grinding your teeth and stress can be things that lead up to this problem.

Either way, it would not harm you to see a doctor. Tell your wife that if she were in pain, you wouldn't tell her to suck it up, but that you would want her to find relief ASAP.

Answer 2

There is an outside shot you need to worry about Tetanus (Lockjaw). If you have no gotten a Tetanus shot within the last few years, you may want to look into it. However, a Dr.'s visit for this would be a phenomenal idea and highly suggested.

Answer 3

If you are unable to open your mouth more than 2cm.....you need to go to the doctors or better yet, try the emergency room.

And drop your wife off at the mental hospital on your way.