Medical professionals estimate that nearly 37 million Americans suffer from migraines; however, numerous more endure chronic headaches which occur as a result of other physical ailments. Although migraine sufferers often have trouble attaining consistent relief, others are more fortunate. To find out if your chronic headaches actually stem from a treatable physical problem, consider the following:
Expert Advice
A large number of people believe that their migraine headaches occur without warning; however, according to Dawn C. Buse of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, migraines typically show specific warning signs up to 24 hours before they occur.
What to Look for
About 3 in 5 migraine sufferers have noticeable symptoms within 12 to 24 hours of an attack. While you might not normally associate them with headaches, Buse says the following signs may predict a migraine attack:
- Strange food cravings
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability or confusion
- Neck stiffness
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained fatigue
- Yawn
- Depression
- Euphoria
- Visual disturbances
Are You Really Having Migraines?
Many times, people think they suffer from migraines when they really owe their problem to TMD. A debilitating, chronic disorder that originates within the jaw joint, temporomandibular joint disorder causes serious headaches. It also results in other trying symptoms, including tinnitus, jaw popping, chewing difficulties and jaw pain. If you notice any of these symptoms in addition to your chronic, severe headaches, you could have TMJ disorder.
Fortunately, Dr. Berry can provide a professional evaluation that will assess whether your headaches are migraines or a symptom of TMD. He can also offer a reliable treatment for temporomandibular joint disorder, which will relieve every single one of your symptoms. To learn more, call his office today at (303) 691-0267.
