Difficulty with speech - stroke???

[nmum]

Sorry for the Long question. I'm 38 years old, hypertensive, overweight on medication - ziac. For the past 2 weeks on and off, my jaw feels funny and kind of achy if I open it too wide and during those times, I find it difficult to speak, as if I'm tongue tied. I feel that some of my words are fuzzy, but I haven't heard any comments from my family. I certainly find it difficult to speak in those times, in that I have to make an effort to speak. I also feel as if I'm salivating more than I should. No other symptoms. This has been happening for 2 weeks now, but on and off. My speech is clear most of the times & I have no difficulty in speaking. What could this be. Even now if I open my mouth wide, it kind of hurts in front of my ears. Are these symptomatic of Stroke?

Thanks for your help in advance.

[nmum]

Thanks Doctor! Just one quick question as a follow up. Now I'm having no jaw pain, no speech difficulty, nothing. Is this possible if I'd had a stroke??

Thanks again.

[nmum]

Thanks Doctor! I shall see my family doctor soon.

[Victoria]

While jaw pain is not something to ignore, if its hurt upon opening and closing it, it could be TMJ.  (when your jaw is out of aligment and your speech sounds a bit off)  See what CCF says though as jaw pain can be indicative of something more serious.  Ever have a cardiac work up?  He'll steer you in the right direction...Hope your feeling better soon!

[ccf]

The pain on opening your jaw sounds like irritation of your TMJ joint in your jaw. This is best treated with avoidance of activities like chewing gum and grinding of teeth. Over the counter agents like Tylenol or Motrin are usually effective for this. However, this should not make it difficult to speak - that sounds like a more serious problem that could represent a stroke. It would be best to see your doctor soon to sort this out.