Millions suffer from TMJ headaches, and they are probably the least understood and the most misdiagnosed of any type of headache. The symptoms of a TMJ headache can closely mimic those of sinus headache, tension headache, migraine headache, and sometimes the cluster headache.
- Migraine: Many TMJD patients experience migraine type headaches. Sometimes these occur because of the pressure placed on the joints in the jaw. Because of this pressure, the muscles are in a constant state of tension (or contraction). Facial muscles may begin to cramp, causing intense pain which may in turn cause nausea and sensitivity to light.
- Cluster Headache: Described as a sudden burst of pain behind one eye and less common than migraine and more common in men than women. TMJ headaches can feel like cluster headaches (severe pain on one side of the eye), but generally they are not classic cluster headaches.
- Tension Headache: A tension headache can range from a dull ache to sharp pain. The pain can be felt as surface pain from tense muscles in the area of the TMJ, to the upper regions of the neck and down to the shoulders. The pain may change when eating, yawning or swallowing. TMJ tension headaches can be referred pain or pain that originates from the jaw and radiates to the temple area. The pain is often described as feeling like a vice or a tight rubber band around the forehead.
TMJ Headache Triggers
- Dental problems
- Trauma
- Hormonal changes such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle.
- Fatigue
- Clenching and grinding
- Poor posture
- Extreme physical exertion
- Certain foods such as chocolate, cheese, and MSG
- Allergies
- Medication and substance overuse
- Changes in the weather
Call today for a complimentary consultation at 855.TMJ.DOCS or 855.865.3627 and let the doctors at the Headache & TMJ Center of New Jersey help you get out of pain!