Do you suffer from jaw pain, headaches or neck aches? Did you know these symptoms could be linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and eye-related problems? Dr. Mingus explains the connection between TMJ and vision problems and what can be done to relieve the symptoms.
What is TMJ?
TMJ is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull. When the joint becomes inflamed or damaged, it can cause a multitude of symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, earaches, ringing in the ears, neck pain, jaw clicking or popping, and facial pain. In some cases, TMJ can also be associated with eye-related problems, vision problems, light sensitivity, and difficulty focusing or tracking objects.
What are the Symptoms of a Connection Between TMJ and Vision Problems?
If you experience visual disturbances, difficulty focusing, or light sensitivity, this could be a sign of a connection between TMJ and eye-related problems. Severe TMJ disorder can even cause dislocation of the eye, leading to a number of vision changes including double vision or blurry vision. Many of these symptoms can be worsened by stress, muscle tension, and anxiety.
How is TMJ Treated?
The first step to relieving the symptoms of TMJ is a proper diagnosis from a medical professional. Once diagnosed with TMJ, various treatment options are available to improve symptoms. These treatment options may include prescription medications to reduce inflammation and muscle relaxants to relax the jaw muscles. Physical therapy can be helpful in remedying the muscle tension and inflammation, as well as exercises to improve jaw function.
Mouthguards can be beneficial in preventing grinding of the teeth in individuals with TMJ, as well as over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs to help alleviate pain. Some individuals opt for holistic treatments like acupuncture or chiropractic care to improve jaw joint function and reduce symptoms.
How Can I Find Out If TMJ is Causing My Vision Problems?
If you are experiencing vision problems and suspect that TMJ might be the cause, it is important to receive a proper diagnosis from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. An eye doctor can perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess your vision and screen for potentially serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.
If no other eye-related issues are identified, an eye doctor can begin the process of diagnosing and treating any underlying TMJ-related issues. An ophthalmologist may refer you to a dentist or physical therapist for further evaluation if TMJ-related problems are suspected.
What Else Can I Do to Relieve TMJ-Related Vision Problems?
To help relieve TMJ-related vision problems, it is important to use stress-reducing techniques to reduce muscle tension, anxiety, and other stress-related symptoms. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive relaxation techniques can all be helpful in reducing stress and muscle tension associated with TMJ disorder.
It is also important to practice good posture and jaw alignment to reduce the risk of further inflammation and muscle tension. Avoiding foods that are hard and chewy can also help reduce stress on the jaw joint.
Helpful Tips for Relieving TMJ-Related Vision Problems
Here are some tips to help reduce TMJ-related vision problems:
Use heat or ice: Applying a warm compress to the area can help with muscle relaxation. In contrast, an ice pack can reduce swelling and inflammation.
Chew on the opposite side: Chewing on one side of the mouth for a long period of time can lead to muscle tension. Chewing on the opposite side can help to reduce muscle strain.
Take regular breaks: If you work on a computer for long periods of time, be sure to take regular breaks to reduce muscle tension and strain.
Get plenty of sleep: Getting enough sleep can help lower stress levels and keep your muscles relaxed.
Give your jaw a break: It’s important to give your jaw a rest occasionally to reduce strain on the muscles. Limit time spent talking or chewing gum and avoid clenching your teeth.
Conclusion
TMJ can be a serious medical condition and, in some cases, it can be linked to vision problems. If you are experiencing vision problems along with common TMJ symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice from an ophthalmologist. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the symptoms of TMJ can be effectively relieved. By practicing good posture, stress reduction techniques, and other tips, the symptoms of TMJ-related vision problems can also be reduced.