Expert: Keith E. Biggs, DC - 12/28/2011

Question
I have a friend who has been talking about the right side of his face being in pain. From his head all the way down to his chin. I'm no Dr., but I think it may be his wisdom teeth bothering him. He just turned 21 and he tells me the pain has been going on for months. He has serious headaches, problems sleeping, jaw bothers him, neck pains... And it's all on the right side of his face.... He never went to see a Dr. Because he is afraid they will turn him away. He is afraid to fall asleep at night. He did not take any kind of pain medicines. What may possibly the problem be???

Answer
Dear Tracie,

There are many possible reasons why your friend is experiencing head/face pain.  The least likely is that it is a stroke just because he is so young, but anything is possible.  Usually with a stroke there are other symptoms, such as weakness or paralysis, sluring of speach, etc.

There is a condition called trigeminal neuralgia that could be causing the pain. It is inflammation of nerves in the face, often for unknown reasons.

Your friend could also be having some neck issues that at times cause head and face pain.

Another possibility is sinus infection.

Does he have dental issues, such as wisdom teeth coming in, or bad cavities, or poor occlusion? Has he seen his dentist recently?

How about ear infections?

Does he suffer from jaw joint popping or clicking? Does he clinch or grind his teeth at night?

Eye strain can cause headaches.  When was the last time that he had a good vision exam?

Tracie, the purpose of GOING to the doctor is that the doctor can evaluate and test the patient to try and come up with a good diagnosis or reason for the pain. Your friend's reluctance to see a doctor "because he is afraid they will turn him away" is an irrational fear.  Most doctors are humanitarians first. They WANT to help their patients by finding the cause of their ailments.

I hope that this gives you some ideas for your friend. The best advice you can give him is to GO TO THE DOCTOR and start ruling out problems.

Keith Biggs, DC
HTTP://www.eastmesachiropractor.com

Tracie, it is very important that he have a good examination