Headache Solutions in San Clara, CA
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Alleviate Your Persistent Headaches

An occasional headache is normal, but if they’re persistent, this could be a sign of a serious medical issue. Persistent headaches usually occur because there are many pain-sensitive structures around your head, including blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and sinuses. These persistent aches or pains can severely impact your quality of life, making simple tasks that much harder.

Fortunately, Dr. Goel is a board-certified TMJ expert who can diagnose the cause of your headaches and provide effective solutions. Read below to learn how we provide help to patients in the Campbell, North San Jose, Fruitdale, and Robertsville, CA areas.

Types of Headaches

Dr. Goel will need to figure out which type of headaches you’re suffering from before recommending treatment. According to the International Classification of Headaches Disorders (ICHD), there are three major types of headaches:

• Migraines: These are the most prevalent forms of headaches and affect 15 percent of the population. Certain factors such as genetics, hormone levels, stress, hunger, and fatigue are known to trigger migraines.
• Tension-Type Headaches: These headaches are found in all age groups and equally affect men and women. They typically cause pain that feels like a band that’s spread around your head and occur when your muscles tense up due to stress or injury.
• Cluster Headaches: They are five to eight times more common among men and result in severe pain around the eyes and side of your head. While the cause is unknown, they’re suspected to be related to a sudden release of histamine or serotonin. This may be triggered by factors such as alcohol, cigarettes, high altitude, and bright light.

Treatment Solutions

A good way to begin your headache treatment is by eliminating common risk factors. The following tips will help protect you from recurring head pains:

• Maintain a consistent workout routine
• Sleep for seven to nine hours each night
• Improve both your head and neck posture
• Quit smoking and drinking alcohol
• Managing teeth grinding
• Avoid foods high in dairy, sugar, and preservatives

Depending on your case, Dr. Goel may also recommend massages or over-the-counter pain medications.

TMJ Disorder Solutions

In many cases, TMJ disorder (TMD) is the underlying cause of persistent headaches. If Dr. Goel determines you suffer from TMD, she can create a custom mouthguard that you can wear overnight. This will prevent you from grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep.

Rest assured, your mouthguard will fit comfortably and help to reduce your TMD symptoms. In addition, these devices can help to prevent facial pain and toothaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any natural ways to treat TMJ headaches?

The best treatment for TMJ headaches is prevention. Certain lifestyle changes may help prevent these types of headaches, including:

• Avoiding chewy foods
• Limiting yawning and chewing gum
• Practicing relaxation techniques
• Applying an ice pack when needed
• Practicing jaw exercises
• Taking anti-inflammatory medications

We also recommend scheduling an appointment with Dr. Goel to discuss the benefits of a nighttime mouthguard by calling us at (408) 404-8257. When you wear a mouthguard at night, the pressure from your teeth is evenly distributed, creating less overall pressure.

What does a TMJ headache feel like?

While a TMJ headache may feel different for everyone, they’re typically tight, dull, and aching — similar to a tension headache. The side where the TMJ is worse is often the most painful. The headache is triggered by jaw movement and can be relieved by relaxing the jaw muscles. Dr. Goel can assess your pain to determine the extent and severity of your headaches.

Can TMJ trigger migraines?

Migraines are usually caused by a neurological disorder, however other conditions like TMD have been linked to migraines as well. A migraine may also temporarily alter your senses, such as causing you to feel nauseous. Physical activity can also make your migraine worse. During your consultation, Dr. Goel can discuss your symptoms to determine if you would benefit from a night guard to prevent your TMJ headaches.

How can I get rid of a headache without pain relievers?

There are several ways to get rid of a headache without pain relievers, including:

• Avoid tension caused by a tight ponytail or hat
• Apply an ice pack or heating pad to the affected area
• Adjust the brightness of your room or computer screen
• Avoid crunchy, sticky, and chewy foods
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Eat anti-inflammatory foods like ginger

You’ll want to try these remedies as soon as your headache starts, as this will improve your chances of relief. While these remedies provide a quick fix, it’s always best to prevent headaches in the first place. If you have TMD, a night guard may help relieve your headaches or migraines.

Visit Dr. Goel for Effective Headache Relief

If you suffer from headaches on a regular basis, it’s crucial to get a professional diagnosis so you can get to the root of the problem. Dr. Goel specializes in treating headaches and TMJ disorder, so she can determine the cause of your pain and provide a solution.

Don’t let persistent headaches get in the way of living your life. Contact our Santa Clara office to schedule an appointment either by calling (408) 549-1602 or by filling out an online contact form. Dr. Pooja and our team proudly serve patients residing in the Campbell, North San Jose, Fruitdale, and Robertsville, CA areas.