15. Difficulty Opening the Mouth: The Locked Jaw Dilemma
While stiffness in the jaw might seem like a minor inconvenience, in the context of Ludwig’s Angina, it’s a substantial concern. Difficulty or inability to open the mouth fully can indicate significant swelling and inflammation in the mouth’s floor.
The swelling caused by Ludwig’s Angina can affect the muscles and tissues responsible for jaw movement. As these tissues become inflamed and enlarged, they can restrict the jaw’s natural range of motion, making actions like speaking, eating, or even just opening the mouth challenging.
This symptom, especially when it appears alongside other signs of Ludwig’s Angina, offers a clear insight into the infection’s advancement. Monitoring the progression of this symptom can guide medical intervention strategies. (15)
