A migraine is a neurological condition that causes much more than a typical headache, often presenting as a severe, pulsating pain accompanied by symptoms like light sensitivity and nausea. Yes, a migraine can cause jaw pain, which is a recognized phenomenon. This facial discomfort is a form of referred pain, where activated pain pathways in the head cause sensation to be felt elsewhere, often involving the jaw, teeth, or sinuses. This explains why a disorder centered in the brain can result in pain that seems entirely localized to the face.
The Trigeminal Connection
The neurological basis for referred jaw pain during a migraine lies primarily with the Trigeminal Nerve (CN V), the main sensory highway for the entire face, including the forehead, cheeks, jaw, and teeth. This nerve also houses the trigeminovascular system, which plays a significant role in initiating and sustaining a migraine attack.
During a migraine, the trigeminal nerve system becomes highly sensitized and activated, sending pain signals to the brain. Because the nerve’s branches converge in the brainstem, the intense electrical activity can “spill over” or be misinterpreted by the central nervous system. This misinterpretation means the brain registers pain in areas innervated by the nerve, such as the jaw or teeth, even though the source of the problem is the migraine itself. This process is part of central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes hyper-responsive to pain signals.
The pain felt in the jaw is therefore not caused by a problem with the jaw joint itself, but by the neurological storm of the migraine. This referred pain can manifest as a deep ache, a throbbing sensation, or a feeling of pressure along the jawline or near the ear. Treating the underlying migraine is often the most effective method for relieving the associated facial and jaw pain.
Differentiating Migraine Jaw Pain from Other Causes
It is important to distinguish jaw pain caused by a migraine from pain originating from other sources, such as dental issues or Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). Jaw pain due to a migraine is typically a throbbing or pulsating ache that occurs only during the headache phase of the attack. This pain is usually constant and does not change based on jaw movement, though opening the mouth may briefly aggravate the head pain.
In contrast, pain originating from a Temporomandibular Disorder is usually a dull, localized ache that is significantly worsened by movement, such as chewing, talking, or yawning. TMD often presents with mechanical symptoms like a clicking, popping, or grinding sound when the jaw moves, or a limited ability to open the mouth wide.
A dental abscess or tooth pain is generally localized to a specific tooth, is often sensitive to temperature changes, and may involve visible swelling or a specific point of tenderness. Pain caused by sinusitis, which can feel like pressure in the cheeks and upper jaw, typically worsens when bending over or leaning forward, and is often accompanied by nasal congestion.
If jaw pain persists after the migraine resolves, or if it is the only symptom present, it is prudent to consult a medical or dental professional. Proper diagnosis is necessary to ensure the pain is not masking a structural, dental, or infectious issue.
The Role of Muscle Tension and Spasm
While the trigeminal nerve explains the neurological referred pain, muscle tension provides a separate, secondary explanation for jaw discomfort during a migraine. Many people respond to the stress and pain of a migraine by involuntarily tensing or clenching their facial and jaw muscles. The muscles of mastication, particularly the temporalis and masseter muscles, can be especially affected.
This sustained, unconscious clenching is a form of tension that can lead to muscle fatigue and spasm. Prolonged spasm generates myofascial pain, which is a dull, aching discomfort that can radiate throughout the jaw and face. This generated muscle pain can then exacerbate the primary neurological pain of the migraine, creating a feedback loop of discomfort. The resulting soreness and stiffness can linger even after the most severe phases of the migraine have passed.
Strategies for Relieving Jaw Pain During a Migraine
Managing migraine-related jaw pain involves addressing both the underlying headache and the local muscle tension. A simple, non-pharmacological strategy is the application of temperature therapy to the affected area. Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the jaw muscles can help promote blood flow and encourage the relaxation of tight, spasming muscles.
Alternatively, a cold pack wrapped in a cloth can provide temporary relief by numbing the area and reducing inflammation. It is important to rest the jaw during a migraine attack by avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods that require excessive exertion. Switching to a soft diet, or even liquids, can prevent further strain on the masticatory muscles.
Gentle, localized massage of the jaw and temple area, using circular motions, can help release trigger points and ease muscle tightness. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help manage both the muscle pain and the inflammatory component of the migraine, though consulting a physician before changing any medication routine is advised. Ultimately, the most effective strategy for eliminating referred jaw pain is the successful treatment of the migraine attack itself, whether through acute migraine medications or preventative therapies.