Your day-to-day routine should not be tainted by the constant presence of headaches. In our quest to help you understand your condition better, we at Bend Headache Center will into an in-depth comparison between Cluster Headaches and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD).
Defining Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are intensely painful headaches that occur in ‘clusters’ or cyclical patterns. Typically, you experience one to three of these headaches a day during a cluster period, which may last two weeks to three months.
Cluster Headaches Symptoms
- Severe pain on one side of the head.
- Restlessness.
- Red or teary eyes.
- Ptosis (droopy eyelid) or pupil constriction.
Understanding TMJD
On the other hand, TMJD involves pain and dysfunction in the muscles that control jaw movement and the joints themselves. While not directly related to cluster headaches, there are cases where both diseases overlap in a patient.
TMJD Symptoms
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw.
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing.
- Aching facial pain.
- Joint locking, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.
Comparing Cluster Headaches and TMJD
The primary distinction between cluster headaches and TMJD lies within the root cause, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Causes
While the exact cause of cluster headaches remains largely unknown, they’re believed to be connected to the disruption of the body’s biological clock. By contrast, causes of TMJD can be traced back to several factors such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury.
Treatment
For cluster headaches, treatments often involve medications, nerve blocks, and lifestyle changes. TMJD management, on the other hand, ranges from non-surgical treatments like oral splints and physical therapy, to surgical interventions for severe cases.
How Bend Headache Center Can Help
At Bend Headache Center, we provide non-surgical and drug-free solutions to help you gain relief from both cluster headaches and TMJD. Our approach is tailored to your specific symptoms and condition, aiming to provide the most effective relief possible.
Remember, you do not have to live with the constant strain of headaches. With the right knowledge and help, you can reclaim your life from the grips of pain.
