Having Intrusive Headaches? Here’s When to Seek Help

Headaches in West Orange, NJ
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Category: Headaches

Constant headaches are frustrating and disruptive. At the Headache & TMJ Center of New Jersey in West Orange, NJ, we understand how debilitating these headaches can be.

With decades of experience diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of headaches, Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein use the latest technology and innovative approaches to fight back against headaches so our patients can reclaim their lives.

One of the main reasons that many people suffer from headaches for months or even years is that they don’t realize they have a treatable chronic condition. This blog helps you know when a headache is just a headache and when to reach out for help.

When Should You Seek Help for Headaches?

Not all headaches require medical attention, but certain signs mean it’s time to get help. If any of the following apply to you, seeking help from a healthcare provider could make a big difference:

  • Frequent or Persistent Headaches: Chronic headaches shouldn’t be part of your daily life. If you reach for pain relievers more than twice a week, it’s a sign that you need to deal with the pain in a more targeted way.
  • Ineffective Over-the-Counter Medications: When pain relief medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen stop working or only provide temporary relief, it may mean that the root problem behind your headaches isn’t being treated. A specialist can offer alternative treatments that target the underlying issue.
  • Jaw Pain or Clicking: If your headaches are accompanied by jaw discomfort, clicking, or popping sounds when you chew, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder may be the culprit. TMJ-related headaches are very common, but they often go undiagnosed until the problem becomes severe.
  • Difficulty Concentrating or Working: Headaches that affect your focus, productivity, or ability to work indicate that they’re more than just an occasional nuisance. When headaches affect your life in any of these ways, they’re hurting your overall quality of life, and it’s time to find out why.
  • Worsening Headaches Over Time: If your headaches steadily grow more painful or frequent, it’s time to see a headache expert. The underlying condition that’s causing this progression could become even worse if you don’t seek help. Don’t wait for it to become completely debilitating.

What Causes Intrusive Headaches?

Many factors can trigger headaches, and understanding the cause is crucial for effective treatment. Common causes include:

  • TMJ disorder
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Sinus problems
  • Chronic stress
  • Inflammation
  • Jaw injuries

We have experience treating TMJ disorder and other functional conditions that often cause chronic headaches. Our dentists provide comprehensive care to target the root cause of your headaches and give you long-term relief.

Headache Help in West Orange, NJ

If you’re tired of dealing with intrusive headaches, it’s time to seek help. Call Headache & TMJ Center of New Jersey in West Orange at 855-865-3627 to schedule a consultation.