Facial gurning linked to anxiety

[TellySavalashairbrush]

I have always suffered with anxiety, but now at nearly 50 it is the worst it has ever been. I take citalopram (30mg) and am also on HRT as the menopause was causing insomnia, achy joints, etc.

During the last 6 months, I have noticed that I gurn my face on and off during the day, particularly when I am feeling very stressed/anxious. This has resulted in me suffering with sores inside my mouth (from pushing my mouth/ nose forward) and terrible jaw pain.

I have tried reading up online, but there is hardly anything on the subject. Has anyone experienced this type of reaction to stress and anxiety? My GP is pretty rubbish and I am reluctant to go to them for advice.

Me! Like you, I suffer with anxiety and if I feel anxious / in an awkward situation, I do this jaw tense thing. It wasn’t too bad when we had to wear masks but when I’m at work for instance, and I feel anxious, my jaw starts clenching (3 or 4 times). I hate it and it makes me feel more self conscious!

It could well be a reaction to your meds. I do this anyway but it's way worse since I started taking sertraline.

This is really interesting as I’ve always had anxiety but have just went back on sertaline as it was peaking. I have horrendous jaw ache and have noticed I’m clenching at times, which is new and wasn’t a symptom before. Now wondering if it’s the meds!

Thank you for all your responses. Yes Marmirae! I continue to wear a face mask as often as possible to hide my gurning.

I have been diagnosed with bruxism and my teeth have really got worn down over the last few years. So I feel very self conscious about my facial/mouth appearance.

I never considered that my medication could be causing this problem!! That has given me food for thought.

Hi I have just been told by my MHN that my gurning is caused by the ADHD meds I've been taking. So I've stopped taking it but I'm still gurning and have massive tension in my jaw. I also have been on anti anxiety meds for years as I suffer with stress and anxiety. Can I ask if anyone has this still too? It seems bizarre!