What causes the feeling of glands under the jaw?
Patient: last night i was feeling my own glands under my jaw as i was feeling a bit crook, as i was doing so i think a squeezed in a little too hard and broke my hyoid bone... feels like a litte wish bone that hugs around your throat, i heard a snap and my fingers fell in further... Doctor: Hello,I have read your inquiry and am concerned that you feel you may have fractured the hyoid bone. I suggest you consult an oral surgeon or ear, nose and throat specialist. It is rarely fractured unless there is violent squeezing. Muscles and ligaments hold it in place offering the protection of flexibility. Cartilage is also in the throat. This bone is also well protected by the mandible. There are blood vessels near by. Torn tissue is a possibility.Are you experiencing any changes associated with your tongue and speech? Do you feel gagging or cough with pain? Swelling or discomfort associated with swallowing and chewing indicate more reason to feel concern. Monitor for signs of tissue change with bruising indicating bleeding. If you have swollen lymph nodes this could indicate an infection due to mouth, sinus or respiratory conditions. You may have discomfort due to these conditions.Take anti-inflammatory medication such as Tylenol or Motrin. Benadryl antihistamine may be helpful. Do not stress the throat. Keep well hydrated with liquids and a soft diet. Avoid all irritants including smoking, alcohol, acidic and spicy foods and liquids, hard or crusty foods. Do apply any pressure to the throat or stress the jaw with excessive movements.Diagnosis can be difficult . X-rays, CT scan and a laryngoscopes may be recommended if a break is suspected.Thank you for your inquiry. I hope you feel better soon and continue with an evaluation if you continue to suspect a fracture and especially if symptoms increase.