Cymy Sue

Many people with TM joint problems do seem to have swollen or sore lymph nodes.
I've never been told the reason for this. It's possibly the same reason we have sinus problems. Muscle spasms. I have read and posted a theory about sinus congestion. The muscle's spasm or compress area's around the sinus cavities and they do not drain properly. This causes congestion and sinus pain or pressure.
The lymph system contains fluid that must move. If muscle compression prevents this, the lymph nodes would swell and become sore. (That one is a guess, but based on a good theory)

Anxiety is common with any type of short or long term problem and chronic pain condition. It is very common with a condition with so many unknowns, fears and problems finding help. (TMJD)

Anxiety, pain, fear, frustration, (even anger) related to TM joint problems create a vicious cycle.

Anxiety will cause tension in the muscles of the head, face, neck and upper body. This always aggravates any problem you are having in these area's.
Normal or healthy people have tension headaches.
People with a tendency for TM joint problems, grinding teeth and/or clenching, will experience an increase in symptoms, which normally creates more anxiety.

BREAKING this cycle is one way to help with your symptoms. It's not easy.
There are many ways to try and alleviate the anxiety. Medications can work for some people, they never helped me very much.

ACTIVETY or exercise is a proven stress reliever. However much you can physically do.

A SKILLED RELAXATION session, everyday, does work. I did this and it helped incredibly. Skilled Relaxation means learning to take 20 minutes once or twice a day, listen to a tape that instructs you to progressively relax muscles and stick with it. It's not so easy at first to do as the tape instructs, to just lay or sit for 20 minutes or so and learn to calm down. It can be done and it works.

INTERESTS that take your mind away from the problems. Sometimes it is hard to consentrate on those things we like to do, but keep working at it. It does help with stress and anxiety to get back a little bit of your normal routine, with things you like. If your pain or condition prevents you from doing things you previously did, find new interests that you can do.

THERAPY. Sometimes just talking to someone trained to understand and explain your reactions to these problems can be very helpful. You need to find a Therapist who understands physical pain and the problems we face with treatment.

There are many other ways to alleviate anxiety. Most people have to try several before finding "what' works for them. There are many books written on this subject, from inexpensive paperbacks to huge volumes. They all contain good suggestions and idea's on how to deal with and alleviate anxiety.

Fighting anxiety caused by physical health problems is an ongoing process.
Anxiety does make these problems worse and this creates more stress and anxiety.

Try to find some way to break the cycle. It won't cure the TM joint problems. You will suffer less and also can consentrate on ways to help the physical problem and make better decisions about your care.

Cymy Sue