Are you dealing with symptoms related to TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)? One of the most noticeable ones can be blurry vision, and you may be curious as to whether TMJ is causing it. In a word, the answer is yes, but it is a bit more complicated than that. In order to fully understand how TMD and vision can be related, we will need to dive a bit deeper and explore all of the symptoms and experiential effects of TMD on the eye.
What is TMD?
TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) is a problem that affects the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It is estimated that more than 10 million Americans are currently suffering from TMD symptoms, although it is possible that many of them have not yet been diagnosed. The condition can be quite painful and is often associated with muscle spasms in the face, neck, and head.
How is TMD Related to Blurry Vision?
Though it might seem strange for TMD to cause blurry vision, the link and explanation are quite simple. You see, the TMJ is physically located very close to a set of nerves known as the trigeminal nerves. These nerves are responsible for the operation, feeling, and sensation of the face and head. When the TMJ is out of alignment or has been damaged, it is likely that these nearby trigeminal nerves will be compressed, stretched, or irritated. This can, in turn, cause a variety of symptoms to appear in a person; one of the most common being blurry vision.
There are two main ways that blurry vision can occur when someone is suffering from TMD. The first way it can happen is if some of the muscles in the eye itself become tense due to the muscle spasms caused by TMD. When the muscles are tense, the eye’s focusing ability may be compromised, leading to temporary blurry vision.
The second way blurry vision can occur is if the trigeminal nerve that runs around the muscle becomes compressed or stretched. In this scenario, the signals that are sent from the eye to the brain can become confused and distorted, leading to blurry vision and difficulty seeing. In other words, the muscles involved in moving and comprehension of the eye focus may not be working properly.
What Other Symptoms are Associated with TMD?
Aside from blurry vision, those suffering from TMD will likely experience a variety of other symptoms as well. Common TMD symptoms include constant headaches, jaw pain, pain in the shoulders and neck, difficulty chewing, poor posture, ringing in the ears, and the occurrence of a clicking or popping noise when moving the jaw.
How Can TMD-Sufferers Relieve Blurry Vision?
If you are currently experiencing blurry vision and suspect it may be related to TMD, the best thing you can do is speak with a medical professional. They will be able to assess your situation and provide you with the necessary relief to get your vision back to normal.
In most cases, doctors will recommend a variety of treatment options available to TMD sufferers. The most common treatments for TMD include heat or cold therapy, exercise, physical therapy, stress management techniques, and medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the joint and alleviate the symptoms.
What Can Be Done to Prevent TMD-Related Blurry Vision?
There are quite a few steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms of TMD and prevent blurry vision from occurring. Firstly, it is important to ensure you are eating a balanced diet consisting of foods that are not likely to irritate your jaw joint. Avoid foods that are difficult to chew and opt for cooked or baked vegetables, fruits, and lean protein sources.
Another helpful preventative measure that can be taken is to practice good posture and exercises for the jaw and chewing muscles. There are many videos on the internet that show you how to perform these exercises effectively. Relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises and massage, can also assist in reducing symptoms.
Conclusion
It is true that TMD can lead to the symptom of blurry vision. The reason for this is due to the trigeminal nerves being compressed or stretched due to joint issues. The good news is that there are many different treatment options for TMD sufferers. If you are having symptoms of TMD and it is affecting your vision, it is important to speak with a doctor in order to receive the necessary treatment. Finally, practicing good habits and exercises can help prevent symptoms associated with TMD.