Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT) Questions Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)

Same problems after surgery on gland?

I had a submandibular gland removed two months ago for burning, painful earaches. It got where I couldn't move my face, three days ago my problems are back. I had burning and an earache with a lot of pressure. I can't talk because of the pain, it is almost to the point where I can't turn my face because of pain. There is a sharp pain in the ear, and a lump starting in my throat and it is starting to hurt.

Female | 48 years old
Complaint duration: 1yr

5 Answers

Sounds like Trigeminal neuralgia mediated by the 5th cranial either from the auriculotemporal branch, or maybe via the lingual nerve branch. Other innervation comes from C3, the 9th and 10th cranial nerves. Seventh cranial nerve has chord tympani branch. Have not heard of chords tympani nerve neuritis. Can be injured in ear surgery. Best to see a neurologist. Why did you have the gland removed? What was the rationale?
This sounds like a problem that is too complicated to work on via email. You need to see an ENT in person to figure this out. I would recommend seeing the doctor who operated on you, even if you may have lost faith. They need to know that you are still having problems and they will have the best chance to know what to do about it. But if after seeing them you are still not confident, then definitely seek a second opinion.
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Hello,

I would suggest revisit with your surgeon and truly try to understand your surgery and what symptoms would it try to alleviate.

D. Desai
Your symptoms might be due to a condition called glossopharyngeal neuralgia.
I would see your surgeon again, but I am concerned you may be suffering with trigeminal neuralgia. If so, you need to be seen by neurology. Good luck!