Headaches can be one of the most aggravating forms of pain. They increase sensitivity to many other forms of pain, interfere with work, family and social lives, and can even impact appetite, sleep, and processes necessary to maintain a healthy body. Headaches can be caused by several factors, and vary in degree, intensity, and location. Frequent headaches are an indication of a larger problem; one contributing factor to frequent headaches may be temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Symptoms of headaches caused by TMD share some universal qualities with many other types of headaches. This may include:
• Face, eye, and ear pain
• Pressure behind the eyes or in the ears
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• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Nausea
Since these symptoms are common with many forms of headaches, it is important to have a qualified dentist perform an extensive evaluation to diagnose TMD. Special diagnostic equipment can be used to determine if your headaches are being caused by TMD.
TMD is a problem with your jaw, jaw joint or surrounding muscles that causes your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to stop functioning properly. Other indications that your headaches may be related to TMD would include:
• Limited jaw movement
• Popping or clicking in the jaw
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Facial pain
• Teeth grinding
• Jaw clenching
If your headaches are accompanied by any of these symptoms, you should see a TMD/TMJ specialist as soon as possible to see if your headaches are being caused by this disorder.
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