A doctor has revealed the non-obvious causes of headaches

Headaches can occur due to problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). According to various data, the prevalence of TMJ disorders among the world's adult population ranges from 15 to 34%. Victoria Radko, orthodontist, head of orthodontic direction of the scientific and clinical center EUROKAPPA clinic, told "Izvestia" on December 15 about non-obvious causes of headaches.

According to the specialist, diseases of the temporomandibular joint can lead to unpleasant sensations in the head, which arise due to excessive tension of masticatory muscles, inflammatory processes in the joint and irritation of neighboring nerves. Also, problematic jaw conditions can contribute to the deterioration of blood circulation and compression of nerve structures in the neck region, which increases the pain syndrome.

Temporomandibular joint pathologies can cause headaches due to impaired sleep. Muscle tension in the TMJ area can increase at night, especially in patients with bruxism, which adds stress to the joints and muscles.

"TMJ diseases affect not only the jaws, but also the general condition of the body, so it is important to seek orthodontic treatment in a timely manner," notes Radko.

The main cause for TMJ disorders are external factors, such as facial trauma, which initiate pathological changes, as well as a sharp increase in stress levels can significantly hamper the work of the jaw joint. Local factors can include tooth loss and subsequent remodeling of the dentoalveolar system.

"When complaining of headaches, the doctor should perform diagnostic tests to determine if the symptoms are related to muscle strain or joint dysfunction. From this directly depends on the treatment strategy," - summarized Radko.

Earlier, on November 15, SM-Clinica neurologist Ekaterina Polyanskaya told Izvestia about cases requiring immediate medical attention in cases of headache. According to her, the occurrence of a sudden headache of "thunder-like" character, as if a blow to the head, which is a symptom of subarachnoid hemorrhage, requires immediate medical attention.