Your jaw likely hurts after coughing because the repeated and forceful opening of your mouth during coughing can strain the jaw muscles and lead to muscle tension. Think of it like exercising any other muscle group – overuse can cause soreness.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Muscle Strain: Coughing, especially frequent or prolonged bouts, forces your jaw to open and close repeatedly. This action engages the muscles responsible for chewing and jaw movement, and over time, can lead to strain and fatigue.
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Muscle Tension: The strain on your jaw muscles can lead to tension. This tension can manifest as soreness or even pain in the jaw area.
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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Issues: If you are already prone to TMJ disorders, excessive coughing can exacerbate the condition, leading to increased jaw pain and discomfort. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull.
In short: Frequent and forceful coughing can strain and fatigue the muscles in your jaw, leading to soreness and pain.
