Cluster headaches are one of the most painful types of headaches, and if you suffer from them, you probably already know how much they can disrupt your life. They come in clusters, and people who experience them typically have a number of headaches in a short period of time. They can last from 15 minutes to three hours or more, and over half of a sample of patients reported trouble functioning even while being medicated. There are a variety of treatment options available for cluster headaches, from prescription medications to natural remedies, but one thing you might not have considered is the source of the problem.
What are TMJ headaches?
TMJ headaches can sometimes be confused with cluster headaches, as the symptoms are similar. TMJ, which stands for temporomandibular joint, is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint is inflamed or otherwise irritated, it can cause not only earaches and jaw pain, but also headaches. Depending on the specific issue, the pain might be felt in the back of the head, the temples, or anywhere in between. TMJ headaches are often described as having a pounding or throbbing sensation, and might be felt most acutely after you have been performing a repetitive motion, such as chewing, clenching your teeth, or grinding your teeth.
Can TMJ cause cluster headaches?
The relationship between TMJ and cluster headaches is still not entirely understood, but it is possible that TMJ can contribute to or even cause this kind of headache. In a 2006 study, researchers found that nearly 90% of patients with cluster headaches also experienced symptoms related to TMJ, such as pain in the jaw, neck, back and shoulders, as well as clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing the jaw. In another study from 2001, researchers found that 85% of the patients with cluster headaches also had gingival and buccal myalgia symptoms, which can be indicative of TMJ disorder.
What are the potential causes of TMJ headaches?
There are a number of different causes that can contribute to TMJ headaches, and not everyone will have the same underlying issue. For some people, the primary culprit might be tight muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders that are the result of stress. For others, a physical injury, such as a blow to the face or head, might be at play. Other potential causes include tooth grinding or clenching at night, an uneven bite, or even the simple act of chewing gum can cause TMJ issues.
How can TMJ headaches be treated?
The first step to treating TMJ headaches is to identify and address the underlying issue that is causing them. In many cases, this will involve a combination of treatments, ranging from at-home remedies to more intensive interventions. Some of the most common treatment options include physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, mouth guards to protect the teeth, and even acupuncture. In some cases, your doctor might recommend surgery to correct a physical defect inside the jaw joint.
Dr. Kelley Mingus Explains TMJ and Cluster Headaches
If you believe that your cluster headaches might be related to TMJ disorder, the first step is to see a healthcare professional for an evaluation. Dr. Kelley Mingus is a dental professional with extensive experience in helping patients with a wide variety of TMJ and headache issues. She and her team at Mingus Dentistry are dedicated to providing the highest levels of care to their patients, and are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest evidence-based practices. If you would like to learn more about how Dr. Mingus and her team can help you, please don’t hesitate to contact them at (555) 555-5555.