Headache Causes

In Virginia Beach, VA

There are different types of headaches, each caused by their own set of circumstances and triggers.

Migraine headaches can be cause by factors such as:

• Foods containing tyramine
• Chemical and environmental allergies
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Stress

Tension headaches can be caused by factors including:

• Repetitive motion
• Physical strain
• Emotional stress

Cluster headaches can be caused by:

• Genetics
• Certain medications
• Food
• Cigarette and alcohol use

Migraine and tension headaches have also been linked to dental issues such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and grinding teeth. The strain and tension that TMD puts on the muscles in your jaw which can lead to serious, debilitating headaches along with a host of other dental issues.

Avoiding Triggers

If you suffer from frequent headaches, it is important to pay attention to your physical and personal habits. Avoiding chocolate, caffeine, red wine, and aged foods may help. It may also be helpful to see an allergist to be tested for common allergies. In addition, avoiding harmful activities like smoking, and engaging in healthy routines like getting sufficient rest and exercise have been shown to be effective ways of controlling chronic headaches.

If your headaches are caused by grinding your teeth or a neuromuscular disorder like TMD, treatment options including orthotics (oral splints) and restorative dental work may be the only solution for preventing future pain.

Dr. Folck is a neuromuscular dentist who has helped thousands of men and women control their headaches by treating the underlying causes. By realigning your jaw or preventing you from grinding your teeth, Dr. Folck can relive the tension and stress that lead to this terribly painful condition.

If you live in or around Portsmouth, Norfolk, Hampton, Chesapeake, Newport, or Virginia Beach, Virginia and suffer from frequent, painful headaches, please contact Dr. Michael P. Folck to schedule an initial evaluation today.