Chronic headaches are one of the most common complaints of OFP sufferers and typically fall into the category of tension-type, migraine, or cluster headaches.
Tension-Type
Tension type headaches are the most common form. They frequently start at the base of the neck referring to the temples, top of the head, and to the eyes. Sufferers often describe this as feeling like a vice around the head. If you’re suffering from chronic headaches, they could be related to TMD.
Possible Triggers:
- Dental problems
- Trauma
- Hormone changes (like menstruation)
- Fatigue
- Clenching and grinding of teeth
- Poor posture
- Extreme exertion
- Medicine
- Weather changes
Migraines
A migraine isn’t just a headache. It can consist of four stages. Prodome begins 2-24 hours prior to the headache and can involve lightheadedness, funny smell, upset stomach, dizziness, and a feeling of being “off.” Aura occurs an hour to several minutes before the headache and involves visual disruptions, numbness, muscle weakness, speech disturbance, lightheadedness, and nausea. The headache involves moderate to severe head, neck, facial, or oral throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and the possibility of nausea and vomiting that lasts up to 3 days. Postdrome occurs after the headache and can involve a feeling of exhaustion or, more rarely, of euphoria.
Possible Triggers:
- Food & Drink
- Additives
- Aged cheeses
- Alcohol
- Caffeine (excessive intake or withdrawal)
- Chocolate
- Citrus fruits
- Cured meats
- Dried fish
- Dried fruits
- Lunch meat
- MSG
- Nuts
- Onions
- Salty foods
Environment
- Lights (sun, flickering, or bright)
- Noise
- Odors
- TV or movie viewing
- Weather (changing conditions)
Physical
- TMJ disorders
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Diet (fasting or skipping meals)
- Excessive exercise
- Eyestrain or visual triggers
- Fatigue
- Menstruation
- Medicine
- Sleep (too much, too little, or changes)
- Stress
Cluster
A cluster headache involves a sharp pain in or behind an eye with a runny nose or watery eyes. Sufferers describe it as feeling like an ice pick. These headaches occur in clusters of 1 to 7 days and last from 20-60 minutes. These headaches can be relieved by common migraine medicines and by inhaling pure oxygen.