As soon as I sit up, the pain goes away. This condition clears up with either anti-inflammatories or antibiotics, but my otolaryngologist says I do not have an ear infection. I had an artery biopsy to rule out temporal arteritis. The bottom line is, none of my doctors can tell me what causes this pain and why it keeps coming back. Facial pain can be caused by a variety of problems.
Temporal arteritis is inflammation of an artery near the temple.
It can lead to blindness and usually occurs in women who are 60 to 75 years of age. The diagnosis is made with a biopsy, such as you received. The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the side of the head. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory pain relievers, jaw rest, and application of hot or cold packs. It may be helpful to go back to your primary physician for further evaluation.