Headaches
Do You Suffer From Headaches?
Headaches are one of the most common medical troubles encountered by most people at some point in their life. It affects people of all ages, races, and genders. A headache can be a sign of stress or emotional distress or can be a result of a medical disorder, such as high blood pressure, anxiety or depression. If you have been experiencing headaches for a while, visit TMJ & Sleep Therapy. We offer comprehensive treatments for headaches. Schedule your appointment now!
Tension Headaches
A tension headache is generally a mild to moderate pain in your head (front, sides, or back of the head) that can affect the top of your skull down to your neck. Tension headaches are described as a dull ache or tightness, like a band around the head. Patients who clench or grind their teeth may become aware that they suffer from tension headaches but don’t recognize their jaw pain.
Other Headaches
Headaches can be directly linked to sleep disorders. Morning headaches upon awakening can be a clear symptom of this. One type of sleep disorder is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Sleep Apnea can result in oxygen deprivation; as breathing stops, blood oxygen levels drop, straining the brain and triggering pain sensors. Insufficient exhalation causes Carbon Dioxide to buildup, leading to cerebral vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). Constant, partial awakenings to resume breathing disrupt sleep cycles and prevent deep, restorative sleep, causing headaches. Roughly 25% of individuals with OSA also experience Bruxism (teeth grinding) due to disturbed sleep, which can lead to morning tension headaches as well.