Chronic Pain & Headaches? It’s Time to Do More Than Just Manage

Chronic pain is categorized as persisting for longer than 12 weeks in a row and can include headaches as its own type of chronic pain, but it is very common for those suffering from other types of chronic pain to also experience headaches as well. Chronic headaches on top of other chronic pain can make it much more complex to treat all existing pain, as they often need to be addressed differently, with some treatments being effective for the general chronic pain and other treatments being more effective for chronic headaches; there is not always a ton of overlap with these treatments.

Suffering from chronic headaches can quickly take a toll on all other aspects of life, both physically and psychologically. Chronic headaches can quickly impede one’s ability to both fall asleep and stay asleep, disrupting their ability to function properly throughout the day due to being tired; irregular sleep patterns have also been shown to have long-term effects on the body, including reduced cardiovascular health. Daily headaches also frequently lead to an increased risk of psychological disorders, including depression and anxiety. Leaving chronic headaches untreated can lead to worsening symptoms, especially if at-home remedies include regularly taking pain medication, to which a tolerance can build, making them less effective but also making the patient increasingly dependent on them in order to function. Taking pain medication for chronic headaches every day can lead to rebound headaches.

Occasional headaches are fairly normal and can typically be indicative of minor dehydration, fatigue, hunger, or the body just communicating that it requires care. However, if you consistently suffer from two or more headaches every week, this can be an indication of either chronic headaches or an underlying condition that is causing the headaches. It is highly recommended that those who are suffering from daily headaches seek medical attention, not only to rule out possibly serious health conditions that are causing the headaches but also to provide relief and treatment for the headaches themselves. No one should have to just suffer from daily pain. There are several different treatment options for chronic headaches; even if the condition is not deemed serious, it is well worth having it assessed and treated by a medical professional to prevent any unnecessary suffering.

There are several potential causes of chronic headaches, including a different type of chronic pain or underlying condition that may result in increased tension in muscles around the neck, jaw, and head. One very common cause for daily headaches and pain is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which involves sometimes constant tension in the TMJ, extending from the jaw through the cheeks, and providing sensations of jaw and head pain. TMJ often occurs from subconscious clenching of the jaw and can often lead to significant triggers for headaches and migraines, typically either initiating them or making them worse. Often, treating TMJ disorder through prevention can provide significant relief for those who suffer from chronic headaches and migraines.

At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, we take a personalized approach to managing chronic headaches, especially when they are linked to sleep or jaw-related issues like TMJ. Chronic headaches often result from sleep disturbances, stress, or misalignment of the jaw, and addressing the root cause is crucial for effective relief. Our sleep specialists start by conducting thorough assessments, which include sleep evaluations and jaw alignment screenings, to identify potential factors contributing to your headaches. We look at lifestyle habits, sleep quality, and jaw function to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Treatment options may include sleep therapies to address issues like insomnia or sleep apnea, which can worsen headache symptoms. For jaw-related headaches, we offer therapies for TMJ disorders, including jaw alignment exercises, mouthguards, and stress management techniques. Additionally, we work with patients to improve sleep hygiene and reduce factors like teeth grinding or clenching. By combining these treatments, we aim to alleviate both the frequency and intensity of your chronic headaches, helping you regain a better quality of life.

If you are experiencing chronic headaches, don’t wait. Contact us at Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, and let our team guide you toward lasting relief. For more information, please contact us today or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Bloomington IL, Peoria/Dunlap IL, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI.