Pain in the cheekbone area can be unsettling. This discomfort often arises from various sources, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause. Recognizing common culprits can help in seeking appropriate care and relief.
Pain From Sinus Issues
Maxillary sinuses, located behind the cheekbones, are a common source of cheekbone pain. When these sinuses become inflamed or infected, a condition known as sinusitis, pressure can build up and radiate pain to the cheeks. This inflammation often results from colds, allergies, or other irritants, causing the sinus lining to swell and hinder mucus drainage.
Sinusitis can lead to thick, discolored nasal discharge, congestion, and tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead. The pain often manifests as a dull, constant ache or pressure, worsening when bending over or moving the head suddenly. This pressure and pain may extend to the jaw and teeth.
Pain From Dental and Jaw Problems
Dental and jaw-related issues frequently contribute to cheekbone pain due to their close anatomical proximity. Infections in the upper teeth, particularly molars, can refer pain to the cheekbone area. Conditions like tooth decay, abscesses, or impacted wisdom teeth can create pressure and inflammation that extends beyond the immediate tooth.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, affecting the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull, are a common cause of pain that radiates to the cheek. Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism) can overwork the jaw muscles, leading to soreness in the cheeks, temples, and jaw joint. Symptoms like jaw clicking, difficulty chewing, or earaches often accompany TMJ-related cheek pain.
Other Sources of Cheekbone Discomfort
Other causes can also lead to cheekbone discomfort. Direct trauma or injury to the face, such as a fall, sports injury, or accident, can result in fractures or bruising of the zygomatic bone, leading to localized pain, swelling, and tenderness. Nerve-related conditions, such as trigeminal neuralgia, can cause intense, sudden, shock-like pain in the cheek, jaw, or teeth. This neuropathic pain is often triggered by light touch, chewing, or talking.
Certain types of headaches, including cluster headaches and migraines, can also manifest with pain radiating to the face and cheek area. Skin infections like cellulitis, or muscle strain from excessive chewing or jaw clenching, can contribute to cheekbone discomfort. Rarer conditions such as bone infections (osteomyelitis) or tumors can also present with zygomatic pain.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many instances of cheekbone pain resolve on their own, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if the pain is severe, worsens over time, or does not improve with self-care measures. Consult a healthcare provider if the pain is accompanied by a fever, significant swelling, vision changes, or difficulty breathing.
Other signs include numbness in the face, discharge from the mouth, or signs of infection such as redness or chills. Persistent or unexplained cheekbone pain should always be assessed by a doctor or dentist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and prevent potential complications, such as the spread of infection or nerve damage.
Simple Steps for Relief
While awaiting a professional diagnosis or during recovery, several general measures can provide temporary comfort for cheekbone pain. Applying warm or cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort, with cold easing swelling and warmth relaxing muscles.
Gentle facial massage, especially around the cheek and jaw muscles, may help reduce tension if not painful. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage pain and reduce inflammation; follow package directions and consult a doctor if unsure. Ensuring adequate rest and avoiding foods that require excessive chewing can also provide relief.