I started having headaches at a very young age, but I don't think anybody really knew what a "migraine" was back then. As I got older into my teen years, I had them worse and worse and still battle (although medication choices are much better now). I had been to several doctors and a neurologist to try to get to the root, but no one could ever find it and just sent me home with more prescriptions.
Into college, I went through a series of allergy tests that revealed that I was allergic to practically everything and I went on food journal diets and shots to try to alleviate the headaches. Nothing seemed to change and I hate needles, so I eventually got off the shots.
Then my dentist discovered I had Temporal Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ). Found out that it is very common and I had all the symptoms. My dentist made me a splint to wear at night to align my bite and it did seem to alleviate some of the stress on my jaw. Although the headaches still remain today (oh, do they ever), the TMJ has thankfully been in remission for the past 15 years or so of my life.
BUT...it seems it's back in full force. I have noticed clicking and pain on the right side of my face and even a soreness in my teeth for the last several months. The weird thing about it now is, it is affecting my neck.
My neck aches.
Terribly.
It feels like a crick that never goes away. Tender to touch and sometimes shoots a strange pain completely up the back of my head. I've taken some hydrocodone over the weekend and been on heat and today called the doctor, but I guess I'm curious. Is anybody else out there familiar with this disorder....and is neck pain common with TMJ? I've googled and found some forums that say yes, but I'd like to know if any of you have experienced this first hand.
4 comments:
I have heard of TMJ, but haven't dealt with it personally. I do know that it can be quite painful. Is there nothing your doctor can do beyond what's already been done? I just hate the thought of you being in so much pain and discomfort. I know that migraines can be horrible to endure! I'll say a prayer that you get some kind of relief soon! I appreciate your sweet comments, by the way! You're such a blessing to know, too!
I just say, "keep asking questions." Don't let them get away without alleviating your pain. Keep going back and trying different things until it works.
I had migraines for the longest time and saw a chiropractor (my dad was one, too!) My neck is built weird and when it's out, I get bad headaches. They can also be related to birth control pills. The hormones can put you off balance.
I appreciate the comments so far girls. My dentist called me back and is referring me to a TMJ specialist. Sissy - no bc pills for me girl...I'm Fixed!! lol
Sorry Scrapper Mom, like April I have heard of TMJ but don't know much about it. But unfortunately, I know about migraines ALL TOO WELL!!!!
I have suffered from them ever since I had "Muscles" almost 16 years ago. I too have had MRIs, etc. with not many answers or relief other than medication.
At one point my doctor even diagnosed me with tension headaches on tops of migraines. So it was like a double whammy.
Lately, I too have had some neck pain but I think that has been a pinched nerve which believe it or not I think is from blogging. You see I sit either in the recliner or on the couch whenever I blog and being left handed I have a tendency to lean on my left side which I think has caused the pinched nerve.
Ok...kind of a bunny trail there. And I know I was not much help but just know that you aren't alone.
I agree with Sissy, just keep asking questions!! And hopefully soon you will get some answers!!
Hang in there...and know that I'll be thinking of you!!
Hugs!! Carrie♥
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