Can swollen lymph nodes cause jaw pain?

Yes, it is scientifically very common. My doctor told me that submandibular lymph nodes lie right under the jawbone, and when they swell up due to an infection, they compress the surrounding tissues and nerves, leading to jaw stiffness.

I totally get it, that sore tightness around the jaw makes even talking or eating so painful and frustrating. Those glands sit right near the jawline, so it is very common to feel that ache. Please take care, eat soft foods, and give yourself some rest.

My swollen neck glands are currently throbbing so bad that chewing breakfast felt like a heavy workout. It definitely causes jaw pain, and honestly, trying to yawn right now is a terrible idea.

Yes, it can. Try using a warm compress on the jaw area to gently ease the tightness until you can see a doctor.

I know exactly how scary it feels to find a lump near your jaw and feel pain there, as your mind immediately jumps to the worst things. But honestly, it is usually just a normal response to a mild throat bug. Try to relax and let a doctor examine it to ease your mind.