Sinus, disabling tension-type, and temporomandibular joint headaches

Purpose of review Clinicians frequently face questions from headache patients regarding the roles played by sinus issues, muscle tension, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. This review highlights new concepts regarding the diagnosis and management of these headache conditions and their differentiation from migraine. Recent findings Recent research has clarified the roles played by pathology in the paranasal sinuses and TMJ in patients reporting headache. Additional information from physiologic studies in patients with tension-type headache (TTH) has improved the understanding of this condition. Improved understanding of sinus headache, disabling TTH, and TMJ headache and their differentiation from migraine will lead to reductions in unnecessary diagnostic procedures and unwarranted medical and surgical procedures. More expedient recognition of the origin of headache should lead to improved therapeutic outcomes.

Automated summary

Recent research has clarified the roles of pathology in the paranasal sinuses and TMJ in patients with headaches, while physiological studies have provided additional insights into tension-type headaches. Better understanding of the origins of headaches can lead to reduced unnecessary diagnostics and improved treatment outcomes.