Tension headache with neck and jaw pain too?
When I'm stressed I get tension headaches and the pain goes down to my jaw and neck too.
My shoulders and neck seize up, they feel tense and raised, and my whole face just feels this dull ache.
My head,neck,shoulders and face feel tender and sometimes warm, and often, I feel tired.
What is the best thing to do when I feel like this? Should I take aspirin/sleep it off/exercise?
Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
Thanks :)
Public Comments
1. Hello-You may be experiencing the jaw/neck pain due to the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. I would suggest you look at the following for a more detailed explanation. Once you do that I would suggest a visit to your GP. He/She would like to know when this started and how often this occurs and is there any time of the day that it mostly happen. If pain killers are suggested; it may be a good idea to ask for more reasons why it happens, maybe you will able to enlighten the GP (if they don't mention why it happens) about the info that follows. If they have an idea that you aren't convinced about only using pain killers, the GP may suggest blood tests/x-ray. If the GP doesn't suggest them. Maybe you should just to ease your mind.
http://www.about-headaches.com/articles/tension-headaches/tension-headaches-and-tmjd.php
I wish you well.
2. Stress of any kind is no good- so many people carry their stress in their neck, upper shoulders, and jaw area. First off, you must deal with the stress in your life. Certain activities like exercise are very important-other things like acupuncture, yoga, massage, even chiropractic can really help you and give you some pain relief.
Chiropractic can help with tension headaches- You might also want to try specific natural headache pain remedies- such as the Halo Rejuvenator or the Healthy Neck System. Getting a good cervical neck pillow will also ensure that there is minimal stress on the neck and that you are in the correct position for sleeping. Because you have jaw pain, you might want to get a special type of pillow - certain cervical support neck pillows have a center in the middle which is really good for back sleepers.
I would not take aspirin for this, as it is only going to mask the symptoms that you are experience. Especially long term, this is not a wise idea.
Finally, neck exercises done everyday in the a.m will be of great benefit to you: http://www.arc4life.com/site/615058/page/993935
Just do these neck stretches to the point that you feel a stretch in the cervical spine and follow that up with some moist heat. You can also do them in the shower as well.
Hope this helps you out.
