Jaw Pain Symptoms

Jaw Pain Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Terms related to Jaw Pain:
• Pain in the Jaw

• Temporomandibular Joint Pain
• TMJ Pain
The jaw joint, medically referred to as the temporomandibular joint or TMJ, is made up of the bone below the
mouth (the mandible, commonly referred to as the jawbone) and the bone just above the mouth (the maxilla). The
TMJ allows the upper jaw to close on the lower jaw and is one of the most frequently used joints of the body.
The temporomandibular joints are complex structures containing muscles, tendons, and bones. Injury to or
disorders of these structures can all result in pain in the jaw area. Additionally, other medical conditions not
related to the TMJ may cause perceived pain in the jaw area. One of the most characteristic of these is the pain
associated with coronary artery disease or heart attack, which typically occurs in the chest but can radiate
(spread) to the jaw area.
REFERENCE:
Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.
Main Articles on Jaw Pain
• (No articles currently available)
Causes of Jaw Pain
• Abscessed Tooth
• Angina
• Arthritis
• Cluster Headaches
• Cysts
• Fracture
• Heart Attack
• Migraine
• Otitis Media
• Sinus Infection
• Swimmer's Ear
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
• Teething
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
• Toothache
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
Abscessed Tooth
• What are the symptoms of an abscessed tooth?
• How is an abscessed tooth diagnosed?
• How is an abscessed tooth treated?
• Can an abscessed tooth be prevented?
• Patient Discussions: Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. It's most
commonly caused by severe tooth decay. Other causes of tooth abscess are trauma to the tooth, such as when it
is broken or chipped, and gingivitis or gum disease.
These problems can cause openings in the tooth enamel, which allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth
(called the pulp). The infection may also spread from the root of the tooth to
the bones supporting the tooth.
What are the symptoms of an abscessed

tooth?
A toothache that is severe and continuous and results in gnawing or throbbing
pain or sharp or shooting pain are common symptoms of an abscessed tooth.
Other symptoms may include:
• Fever
• Pain when chewing
• Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
What does an abscessed
• Bitter taste in the mouth
tooth look like?
• Foul smell to the breath
• Swollen neck glands
• General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling
• Redness and swelling of the gums
• Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw
• An open, draining sore on the side of the gum
If the root of the tooth dies as a result of infection, the toothache may stop. However, this doesn't mean the
infection has healed; the infection remains active and continues to spread and destroy tissue. Therefore, if you
experience any of the above listed symptoms, it is important to see a dentist even if the pain subsides.
How is an abscessed tooth diagnosed?

Your dentist will probe your teeth with a dental instrument. If you have an abscessed tooth, you will feel pain when
the tooth is tapped by your dentist's probe. Your dentist will also ask you if your pain increases when you bite
down or when you close your mouth tightly. In addition, your dentist may suspect an abscessed tooth because
your gums may be swollen and red.
Your dentist may also take X-rays to look for erosion of the bone around the abscess.
How is an abscessed tooth treated?

Strategies to eliminate the infection, preserve the tooth, and prevent complications are the goals of treatment for
an abscessed tooth.
To eliminate infection, the abscess may need to be drained. Achieving drainage may be done through the tooth
by a procedure known as a root canal. Root canal surgery may also be recommended to remove any diseased
root tissue after the infection has subsided. Then, a crown may be placed over the tooth.
The tooth may also be extracted, allowing drainage through the socket.
Finally, a third way to drain the abscess would be by incision into the swollen gum tissue.
Antibiotics are prescribed to help fight the infection. To relieve the pain and discomfort associated with an
abscessed tooth, warm salt-water rinses and over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can
be used.
The inflammation and pain of abscesses may be relieved with a low-level laser, making the patient more
comfortable to receive the injection in a more painless way.
Can an abscessed tooth be prevented?

Following good oral hygiene practices can reduce the risk of developing a tooth abscess. Also, if your teeth
experience trauma (for example, become loosened or chipped), seek prompt dental attention.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Elverne M. Tonn, DDS, on September 17, 2009
© 2009 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
Last Editorial Review: 9/17/2009
Angina
Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
Medical Editors: Daniel Kulick, MD, FACC, FSCAI and William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
• Introduction to angina
• What is angina and what are the symptoms of angina?
• What causes angina?
• What are other causes of chest pain?
• Why is it important to establish the diagnosis of angina?
• How is angina diagnosed?
• What are the treatment options for angina patients?
• Angina medications
• Angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery
• What's new in the evaluation of angina?
• What's new in the treatment of angina and heart attacks?
• Angina At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Angina - How Was Diagnosis Established
Introduction to angina
Chest pain is a common symptom that is caused by many different conditions. Some causes require prompt
medical attention, such as angina, heart attack, or tearing of the aorta. Other causes of chest pain that may not
require immediate medical intervention include spasm of the esophagus, gallbladder attack, or inflammation of the
chest wall. An accurate diagnosis is important in providing proper treatment to patients with chest pain.
The diagnosis and treatment of angina is discussed below, as well as the diagnosis of other causes of chest pain
that can mimic angina.
What is angina, and what are the symptoms of angina?

Angina (angina pectoris - Latin for squeezing of the chest) is chest discomfort that occurs when there is a
decreased blood oxygen supply to an area of the heart muscle. In most cases, the lack of blood supply is due to a
narrowing of the coronary arteries as a result of arteriosclerosis.
Angina is usually felt as:

• pressure,
• heaviness,
• tightening,
• squeezing, or
• aching across the chest, particularly behind the breastbone.
This pain often radiates to the neck, jaw, arms, back, or even the teeth.
Patients may also suffer:
• indigestion,
• heartburn,
• weakness,
• sweating,
• nausea,
• cramping, and
• shortness of breath.
Angina usually occurs during exertion, severe emotional stress, or after a heavy meal. During these periods, the
heart muscle demands more blood oxygen than the narrowed coronary arteries can deliver. Angina typically lasts
from 1 to 15 minutes and is relieved by rest or by placing a nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue. Nitroglycerin
relaxes the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Both rest and nitroglycerin decrease the heart muscles
demand for oxygen, thus relieving angina.
Angina is classified in one of two types: 1) stable angina or 2) unstable angina.
Stable angina
Stable angina is the most common type of angina, and what most people mean when they refer to angina. People
with stable angina have angina symptoms on a regular basis and the symptoms are somewhat predictable (for
example, walking up a flight of steps causes chest pain). For most patients, symptoms occur during exertion and
commonly last less than five minutes. They are relieved by rest or medication, such as nitroglycerin under the
tongue.
Unstable angina
Unstable angina is less common and more serious. The symptoms are more severe and less predictable than the
pattern of stable angina. Moreover, the pains are more frequent, last longer, occur at rest, and are not relieved by
nitroglycerin under the tongue (or the patient needs to use more nitroglycerin than usual). Unstable angina is not
the same as a heart attack, but it warrants an immediate visit to your healthcare provider or hospital emergency
department as further cardiac testing is urgently needed. Unstable angina is often a precursor to a heart attack.
What causes angina?

The most common cause of angina is coronary artery disease. A less common cause of angina is spasm of the
coronary arteries.
Coronary artery disease

Coronary arteries supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Coronary artery disease develops as cholesterol
is deposited in the artery wall, causing the formation of a hard, thick substance called cholesterol plaque. The
accumulation of cholesterol plaque over time causes narrowing of the coronary arteries, a process called
arteriosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis can be accelerated by smoking, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and
diabetes. When coronary arteries become narrowed by more than 50% to 70%, they can no longer meet the
increased blood oxygen demand by the heart muscle during exercise or stress. Lack of oxygen to the heart
muscle causes chest pain (angina).
Coronary artery spasm
The walls of the arteries are surrounded by muscle fibers. Rapid contraction of these muscle fibers causes a
sudden narrowing (spasm) of the arteries. A spasm of the coronary arteries reduces blood to the heart muscle
and causes angina. Angina as a result of a coronary artery spasm is called "variant" angina or Prinzmetal angina.
Prinzmetal angina typically occurs at rest, usually in the early morning hours. Spasms can occur in normal
coronary arteries as well as in those narrowed by arteriosclerosis.
Coronary artery spasm can also be caused by use/abuse of cocaine. The spasm of the artery wall caused by
cocaine can be so significant that it can actually cause a heart attack.
What are other causes of chest pain?

In caring for patients with chest pain, the doctor distinguishes whether the pain is related to a lack of oxygen to
the heart muscle (as in angina or heart attack), or is due to another process. Many conditions are considered that
can cause chest pain which is similar to that of a heart attack or angina. Examples include the following:
• Pleuritis (pleurisy): Inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleuritis) causes sharp chest pain,
which is aggravated by deep breathing and coughing. Patients often notice shortness of
breath, in part due to their shallow breathing to minimize chest pain. Viral infections are the
most common causes of pleurisy. Other systemic inflammatory conditions, such as systemic
lupus, can also cause pleurisy.
• Pericarditis: Pericarditis is inflammation of the lining around the heart. Symptoms of

pericarditis are similar to that of pleuritis.
• Pneumonia: Pneumonia (bacterial infection of the lung) causes fever and chest pain. Chest
pain in bacterial pneumonia is due to an irritation or infection of the lining of the lung (pleura).
• Pulmonary embolism: blood clots travel from the veins of the pelvis or the lower extremities
to the lung, the condition is called pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism can cause
death of lung tissue (pulmonary infarction). Pulmonary infarction can lead to irritation of the
pleura, causing chest pain similar to pleurisy. Some common causes of blood clots in these
veins is deep vein thrombosis (prolonged immobility, recent surgery, trauma to the legs, or
pelvic infection).
• Pneumothorax: Small sacs in the lung tissue (alveoli) can spontaneously burst, causing
pneumothorax. Symptoms of pneumothorax include sudden, severe, sharp chest pain and
shortness of breath. One common cause of pneumothorax is severe emphysema.
• Mitral valve prolapse: Mitral valve prolapse is a common heart valve abnormality, affecting
5% to 10% of the population. MVP is especially common among women between 20 to 40
years of age. Chest pain with MVP is usually sharp but not severe. Unlike angina, chest pain
with MVP rarely occurs during or after exercise, and usually will not respond to nitroglycerin.
• Aortic dissection: The aorta is the major vessel delivering blood from the left ventricle to the
rest of the body. Aortic dissection (tearing of the aorta wall) is a life-threatening emergency.
Aortic dissection causes severe, unrelenting chest and back pain. Young adults with aortic
dissection usually have Marfan's syndrome, an inherited disease in which an abnormal form of
the structural protein called collagen causes weakness of the aortic wall. Older patients
develop aortic dissection typically as a result of chronic, high blood pressure, in addition to
generalized hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis).
• Costochondritis, rib fractures, muscle strain or spasm: Pain originating from the chest
wall may be due to muscle strain or spasm, costochondritis, or rib fractures. Chest wall pain is
usually sharp and constant. It is usually worsened by movement, coughing, deep breathing,
and direct pressure on the area. Muscle spasm and strain can result from vigorous, unusual
twisting and bending. The joints between the ribs and cartilage next to the breastbone can
become inflamed, a condition called costochondritis. Fractured ribs resulting from trauma or
cancer involvement can cause significant chest pain.
• Nerve compression: Compression of the nerve roots by bone spurs as they exit the spinal
cord can cause pain. Nerve compression can also cause weakness and numbness in the
upper arm and chest.
• Shingles (herpes zoster infection of the nerves): Shingles is nerve irritation from the
infection, which can cause chest pain days before any typical rash appears.
• Esophageal spasm and reflux: The esophagus is the long muscular tube connecting the
mouth to the stomach. Reflux, or regurgitation of stomach contents and acid into the
esophagus can cause heartburn and chest pain. Spasm of the muscle of the esophagus can
also cause chest pain which can be indistinguishable from chest pain caused by angina or a
heart attack. The cause of esophageal muscle spasm is not known. Pain of esophageal
spasm can respond to nitroglycerin in a similar manner as angina.
• Gallbladder attack (gallstones): Gallstones can block the gallbladder or bile ducts and
cause severe pain of the upper abdomen, back and chest. Gallbladder attacks can mimic the
pain of angina and heart attack.
• Anxiety and panic attacks: Anxiety, depression, and panic attacks are frequently associated
with chest pain lasting from minutes to days. The pain can be sharp or dull. It is usually
accompanied by shortness of breath, or the inability to take a deep breath. Emotional stress
can aggravate chest pain, but the pain is generally not related to exertion, and is not relieved
by nitroglycerin. These patients often breath too fast (hyperventilate), causing
lightheadedness, numbness, and tingling in the lips and fingers. Coronary artery disease risk
factors are typically absent in these patients. Since there is no test for panic attacks, patients
with chest pain usually undergo tests to exclude coronary artery disease and other causes of
chest pain.
Why is it important to establish the diagnosis of angina?

Angina is usually a warning sign of the presence of significant coronary artery disease. Patients with angina are at
risk of developing a heart attack (myocardial infarction). A heart attack is the death of heart muscle precipitated by
the complete blockage of a diseased coronary artery by a blood clot.
During angina, the lack of oxygen (ischemia) to the heart muscle is temporary and reversible. The lack of oxygen
to the heart muscle resolves and the chest pain disappears when the patient rests. In contrast, the muscle
damage in a heart attack is permanent. The dead muscle turns into scar tissue when healed. A scarred heart
cannot pump blood as efficiently as a normal heart, and can lead to heart failure.
Up to 25% of patients with significant coronary artery disease have no symptoms at all, even though they clearly
lack adequate blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle. These patients have "silent" angina. They have the
same risk of heart attack as those with symptoms of angina.
How is angina diagnosed?

The electrocardiogram (EKG, ECG) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart muscle, and can detect
heart muscle which is in need of oxygen. The EKG is useful in showing changes caused by inadequate
oxygenation of the heart muscle or a heart attack.
Exercise stress test

In patients with a normal resting EKG, exercise treadmill or bicycle testing can be useful screening tools for
coronary artery disease. During an exercise stress test (also referred to as stress test, exercise
electrocardiogram, graded exercise treadmill test, or stress ECG), EKG recordings of the heart are performed
continuously as the patient walks on a treadmill or pedals on a stationary bike at increasing levels of difficulty. The
occurrence of chest pain during exercise can be correlated with changes on the EKG, which demonstrates the
lack of oxygen to the heart muscle. When the patient rests, the angina and the changes on the EKG which
indicate lack of oxygen to the heart can both disappear. The accuracy of exercise stress tests in the diagnosis of
significant coronary artery disease is 60% to 70%. If the exercise stress test does not show signs of coronary
artery disease, a nuclear agent (thallium) can be given intravenously during exercise stress test. The addition of
thallium allows nuclear imaging of blood flow to different regions of the heart, using an external camera. A
reduced blood flow in an area of the heart during exercise, with normal blood flow to the area at rest, signifies
significant artery narrowing in that region of the heart.
Stress echocardiography
Stress echocardiography combines echocardiography (ultrasound imaging of the heart muscle) with exercise
stress testing. Like the exercise thallium test, stress echocardiography is more accurate than an exercise stress
test in detecting coronary artery disease. When a coronary artery is significantly narrowed, the heart muscle
supplied by this artery does not contract as well as the rest of the heart muscle during exercise. Abnormalities in
muscle contraction can be detected by echocardiography. Stress echocardiography and thallium stress tests are
both about 80% to 85% accurate in detecting significant coronary artery disease.
When a patient cannot undergo exercise stress test because of neurological or orthopedic difficulties, medications
can be injected intravenously to simulate the stress on the heart normally brought on by exercise. Heart imaging
can be performed with a nuclear camera or echocardiography.
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization with angiography (coronary arteriography) is a technique that allows x-ray pictures to be
taken of the coronary arteries. It is the most accurate test to detect coronary artery narrowing. Small hollow plastic
tubes (catheters) are advanced under x-ray guidance to the openings of the coronary arteries. Iodine contrast
"dye" is injected into the arteries while an x-ray video is recorded. Coronary arteriography gives the doctor a
picture of the location and severity of coronary artery disease. This information can be important in helping
doctors select treatment options.
CT coronary angiogram
CT coronary angiography is procedure that uses an intravenous dye that contains iodine, and CT scanning to
image the coronary arteries. While the use of catheters is not necessary (thus the term "noninvasive" test applies
to this procedure), there are still some risks involved, including the following:
• Patients allergic to iodine
• Patients with abnormal kidney function
• Radiation exposure which is similar to, if not greater than, that received with a conventional
coronary angiogram.
Nonetheless, this is generally a very safe test for most people. It is a major tool in the diagnosis of coronary artery
disease in patients:
• at high risk for developing coronary disease (cigarette smokers, those with genetic risk, high
cholesterol levels, hypertension, or diabetes),
• who have unclear results with exercise stress tests or other testing, or
• who have symptoms suspicious of coronary disease
What are the treatment options for angina patients?

Treatment options include:
• rest,
• medications (nitroglycerin, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers),
• percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), or
• coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG).
Angina medications
Nitroglycerin
Resting, nitroglycerin tablets (placed under the tongue), and nitroglycerin sprays all relieve angina by reducing the
heart muscle's demand for oxygen. Nitroglycerin also relieves spasm of the coronary arteries and can redistribute
coronary artery blood flow to areas that need it most. Short-acting nitroglycerin can be repeated at five minute
intervals. When 3 doses of nitroglycerin fail to relieve the angina, further medical attention is recommended.
Short-acting nitroglycerin can also be used prior to exertion to prevent angina.
Longer-acting nitroglycerin preparations, such as Isordil tablets, Nitro-Dur transdermal systems (patch form), and
Nitrol ointment are useful in preventing and reducing the frequency and intensity of episodes in patients with
chronic angina. The use of nitroglycerin preparations may cause headaches and lightheadedness due to an
excess lowering of blood pressure.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers relieve angina by inhibiting the effect of adrenaline on the heart. Inhibiting adrenaline decreases the
heart rate, lowers the blood pressure, and reduces the pumping force of the heart muscle, all of which reduce the
heart muscle's demand for oxygen. Examples of beta blockers include:
• acebutolol (Sectral)
• atenolol (Tenormin)
• bisoprolol (Zebeta)
• metoprolol (Lopressor, Lopressor LA, Toprol XL)
• nadolol (Corgard)
• propranolol (Inderal)
• timolol (Blocadren)
Side effects include of beta blockers include:
• worsening of asthma,
• excess lowering of the heart rate and blood pressure,
• depression,
• fatigue,
• impotence,
• increased cholesterol levels, and
• shortness of breath due to diminished heart muscle function (congestive heart failure).
Calcium Channel Blockers

Calcium channel blockers relieve angina by lowering blood pressure, and reducing the pumping force of the heart
muscle, thereby reducing muscle oxygen demand. Calcium channel blockers also relieve coronary artery spasm.
Examples of calcium channel blockers include:
• amlodipine (Norvasc)
• bepridil (Vascor)
• diltiazem (Cardizem)
• felodipine (Plendil)
• isradipine (Dynacirc)
• nicardipine, (Cardene)
• nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia)
• nimodipine (Nimotop)
• nisoldipine (Sular)
• verapamil (Calan)
Side effects of calcium channel blockers include:
• swelling of the legs,
• excess lowering of the heart rate and blood pressure, and
• depressing heart muscle function.
Other anti-anginal drugs

Ranolazine (Ranexa) is indicated for the treatment of chronic angina. Ranexa may be used with beta-blockers,
nitrates, calcium channel blockers, antiplatelet therapy, lipid-lowering therapy, ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin
receptor blockers.
Angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery

When patients continue to have angina despite maximally tolerated combinations of nitroglycerin medications,
beta blockers and calcium channel blockers, cardiac catheterization with coronary arteriography is indicated.
Depending on the location and severity of the disease in the coronary arteries, patients can be referred for balloon
angioplasty (percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or PTCA) or coronary artery bypass graft surgery
(CABG) to increase coronary artery blood flow.
What are other methods are used to evaluate angina?

Computerized X-ray scan (ultrafast CT scan) is highly accurate in detecting small amounts of calcium in the
plaque of coronary arteries. If an ultrafast CT scan shows no calcium in the arteries, atherosclerotic coronary
artery disease is unlikely. Ultrafast CT scanning is useful in evaluating chest pain in younger patients (men under
40 and women under 50 years old). Since young people do not normally have significant coronary artery plaque,
a negative ultrafast CT scan makes the diagnosis of coronary artery disease unlikely. However, finding calcium by
this method is less meaningful in older patients who are likely to have mild plaquing simply from the aging
process.
Even though an ultrafast CT scan is useful in detecting calcium in plaque, it cannot determine whether the
calcium-laden plaque actually causes artery narrowing and reduces blood flow. For example, a patient with a
densely calcified plaque causing minimal or no artery narrowing will have a strongly positive ultrafast CT scan but
a normal exercise treadmill test. In most patients who are suspected of having angina due to coronary artery
disease, an exercise treadmill study is usually the first step in determining whether any plaque is clinically
significant. Newer very high speed CT scanners can actually detect true coronary artery plaques and lesions
similar to coronary angiography.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using magnetism and radio waves, can be used to image (produce a likeness
of) the blood vessels. Currently, the larger vessels, such as the carotid arteries in the neck, can be imaged using
this technique. Future software and hardware improvements may allow screening of the heart's arteries with
magnetic resonance testing.
What's new in the treatment of angina and heart attacks?

Coronary arteries can close after angioplasty, causing recurrent angina or even heart attacks. One way to
decrease the risk of coronary artery closure is by deploying stents to keep the arteries open. Drug-coated stents
are being improved to significantly reduce the rate of artery closure.
Angina At A Glance
• Angina is one of many causes of chest pain.
• Angina is chest pain that is a result of inadequate oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
• Angina can be caused by coronary artery disease or spasm of the coronary arteries.
• EKG, exercise stress test, stress echocardiography, stress thallium, and cardiac
catheterization are important in the diagnosis of angina.
• Treatment of angina includes rest, medications, angioplasty, and/or coronary artery bypass
surgery.
Additional resources from WebMD Boots UK on Heart Disease: Angina
REFERENCE: Reference:
UpToDate.com. Transmyocardial laser revascularization for management of refractory angina.
FDA Prescribing Information for Ranexa.
Arthritis
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Medical Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
• What is arthritis? What causes arthritis?

• What are arthritis symptoms and signs?
• Who is affected by arthritis?
• How is arthritis diagnosed, and why is a diagnosis important?
• What is the treatment for arthritis?
• What is the national financial impact of arthritis?
• What is a rheumatologist?
• What is the Arthritis Foundation?
• Arthritis At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Arthritis - Symptoms
• Patient Discussions: Arthritis - Effective Treatments
What is arthritis? What causes arthritis?

Arthritis is a joint disorder featuring inflammation. A joint is an area of the body where two different bones meet. A
joint functions to move the body parts connected by its bones. Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or
more joints.
Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain. Joint pain is referred to as arthralgia.
There are many types of arthritis (over 100 identified, and the number is growing). The types range from those
related to wear and tear of cartilage (such as osteoarthritis) to those associated with inflammation resulting from
an overactive immune system (such as rheumatoid arthritis). Together, the many types of arthritis make up the
most common chronic illness in the United States.
The causes of arthritis depend on the form of arthritis. Causes include injury (leading to osteoarthritis), metabolic
abnormalities (such as gout and pseudogout), hereditary factors, the direct and indirect effect of infections
(bacterial and viral), and a misdirected immune system with autoimmunity (such as in rheumatoid arthritis and
systemic lupus erythematosus).
Arthritis is classified as one of the rheumatic diseases. These are conditions that are different individual illnesses,
with differing features, treatments, complications, and prognoses. They are similar in that they have a tendency to
affect the joints, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons, and many have the potential to affect other internal
body areas.
What are arthritis symptoms and signs?

Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints. Inflammation of the joints from arthritis is
characterized by joint stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth. Tenderness of the inflamed joint can be present.
Many of the forms of arthritis, because they are rheumatic diseases, can cause symptoms affecting various
organs of the body that do not directly involve the joints. Therefore, symptoms in some patients with certain forms
of arthritis can also include fever, gland swelling (swollen lymph nodes), weight loss, fatigue, feeling unwell, and
even symptoms from abnormalities of organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys.
Who is affected by arthritis?

Arthritis sufferers include men and women, children and adults. Approximately 350 million people worldwide have
arthritis. Nearly 40 million people in the United States are affected by arthritis, including over a quarter million
children!
More than 27 million Americans have osteoarthritis. Approximately 1.3 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid
arthritis.
More than half of those with arthritis are under 65 years of age. Nearly 60% of Americans with arthritis are
women.
How is arthritis diagnosed, and why is a diagnosis important?

The first step in the diagnosis of arthritis is a meeting between the doctor and the patient. The doctor will review
the history of symptoms, examine the joints for inflammation and deformity, as well as ask questions about or
examine other parts of the body for inflammation or signs of diseases that can affect other body areas.
Furthermore, certain blood, urine, joint fluid, and/or X-ray tests might be ordered. The diagnosis will be based on
the pattern of symptoms, the distribution of the inflamed joints, and any blood and X-ray findings. Several visits
may be necessary before the doctor can be certain of the diagnosis. A doctor with special training in arthritis and
related diseases is called a rheumatologist (see below).
Many forms of arthritis are more of an annoyance than serious. However, millions of people suffer daily with pain
and disability from arthritis or its complications.
Earlier and accurate diagnosis can help to prevent irreversible damage and disability. Properly guided programs
of exercise and rest, medications, physical therapy, and surgery options can idealize long-term outcomes for
those with arthritis.
It should be noted that both before and especially after the diagnosis of arthritis, communication with the treating
doctor is essential for optimal health. This is important from the standpoint of the doctor, so that he/she can be
aware of the vagaries of the patient's symptoms as well as their tolerance of and acceptance of treatments. It is
important from the standpoint of patients, so that they can be assured that they have an understanding of the
diagnosis and how the condition does and might affect them. It is also crucial for the safe use of medications.
What is the treatment for arthritis?

The treatment of arthritis is very dependent on the precise type of arthritis present. An accurate diagnosis
increases the chances for successful treatment. Treatments available include physical therapy, splinting, cold-
pack application, paraffin wax dips, anti-inflammatory medications, immune-altering medications, and surgical
operations.
What is the national financial impact of arthritis?

It has been estimated that the total cost of the arthritis bill for the United States, in terms of hospitalization, doctor
visits, medications, physical therapies, nursing-home care, lost wages, early death, and family discord is over $50
billion dollars annually.
This does not include the nearly $2 billion spent each year in the United States on unproven remedies by patients
addressing their symptoms on their own.
What is a rheumatologist?
A rheumatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the nonsurgical treatment of rheumatic illnesses,
especially arthritis.
Rheumatologists have special interests in unexplained rash, fever, arthritis, anemia, weakness, weight loss,
fatigue, joint or muscle pain, autoimmune disease, and anorexia. They often serve as consultants, acting like
medical detectives at the request of other doctors.
Rheumatologists have particular skills in the evaluation of the over 100 forms of arthritis and have special
interests in rheumatoid arthritis, spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid
syndrome, Still's disease, dermatomyositis, Sjogren's syndrome, vasculitis, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue
disease, sarcoidosis, Lyme disease, osteomyelitis, osteoarthritis, back pain, gout, pseudogout, relapsing
polychondritis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, serum sickness, reactive arthritis, Kawasaki disease, fibromyalgia,
erythromelalgia, Raynaud's disease, growing pains, iritis, osteoporosis, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and others.
Classical adult rheumatology training includes four years of medical school, one year of internship in internal
medicine, two years of internal-medicine residency, and two years of rheumatology fellowship. There is a
subspecialty board for rheumatology certification, offered by the American Board of Internal Medicine, which can
provide board certification to approved rheumatologists.
Pediatric rheumatologists are physicians who specialize in providing comprehensive care to children (as well as
their families) with rheumatic diseases, especially arthritis.
Pediatric rheumatologists are pediatricians who have completed an additional two to three years of specialized
training in pediatric rheumatology and are usually board-certified in pediatric rheumatology.
What is the Arthritis Foundation?

The Arthritis Foundation is the only national voluntary health organization whose purpose is directed solely to all
forms of arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation has national and international programs involving support for scientific
research, public information and education for affected patients and their families, training of specialists, public
awareness, and local community assistance.
Local branch chapters of the Arthritis Foundation serve to disseminate information about arthritis and rheumatic
diseases, as well as function as referral centers. Moreover, many of the various forms of arthritis have their own
foundations that serve as information and referral resources for local communities.
Summary
It is the ultimate goal of scientific arthritis research that optimal treatment programs are designed for each of the
many form of arthritis. This field will continue to evolve as improvements develop in the diagnosis and treatment
of arthritis and related conditions.
Arthritis At A Glance
• Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints.
• Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints.
• Arthritis sufferers include men and women, children and adults.
• A rheumatologist is a medical arthritis expert.
• Earlier and accurate diagnosis can help to prevent irreversible damage and disability.
REFERENCE:
"Arthritis Prevalence: A Nation in Pain." Arthritis Foundation. <http://www.arthritis.org>.
Cluster Headaches
• Introduction
• Who gets cluster headaches?
• What causes cluster headaches?
• What are the symptoms of a cluster headache?
• Is there any way to tell that a cluster headache is coming?
• What is the treatment for cluster headaches?
Introduction
The term "cluster headache" refers to a type of headache that recurs over a period of time. People who have
cluster headaches experience an episode one to three times per day during a period of time (the cluster period),
which may last from 2 weeks to 3 months. The headaches may disappear completely (go into "remission") for
months or years, only to recur. A cluster headache typically awakens a person from sleep 1 to 2 hours after going
to bed. These nocturnal attacks can be more severe than the daytime attacks. Attacks appear to be linked to the
circadian rhythm (or "biological" clock). Most people with cluster headaches will develop cluster periods at the
same time each year -- either in the spring or fall or the winter or summer.
Cluster headaches are one of the most severe types of headache. It can be 100 times more intense than a
migraine attack.
Who Gets Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are the least common type of headaches, affecting less than 1 in 1,000 people. Cluster
headaches are a young person's disease: the headaches typically start before age 30. Cluster headaches are
more common in men, but more women are starting to be diagnosed with this problem. The male to female ratio
is 2-3:1.
What Causes Cluster Headaches?

The true biochemical cause of cluster headaches is unknown. However, the headaches occur when a nerve
pathway in the base of the brain (the trigeminal-autonomic reflex pathway) is activated. The trigeminal nerve is
the main nerve of the face responsible for sensations (such as heat or pain.)
When activated, the trigeminal nerve causes the eye pain associated with cluster headaches. The trigeminal
nerve also stimulates another group of nerves that causes the eye tearing and redness, nasal congestion, and
discharge associated with cluster attacks.
The activation of the trigeminal nerve appears to come from a deeper part of the brain called the hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus is home to our "internal biologic clock" which regulates our sleep and wake cycles on a 24-
hour schedule. Recent imaging studies have shown activation or stimulation of the hypothalamus during a cluster
attack.
Cluster headaches are not caused by an underlying brain condition such as a tumor or aneurysm.
What Are the Symptoms of a Cluster Headache?

Cluster headaches generally reach their full force within five or ten minutes after onset. The attacks are usually
very similar, varying only slightly from one attack to another.
• Type of Pain: The pain of cluster headache is almost always one-sided, and during a
headache period, the pain remains on the same side. When a new headache period starts, it
rarely occurs on the opposite side.
• Severity/Intensity of Pain: The pain of a cluster headache is generally very intense and
severe and is often described as having a burning or piercing quality. It may be throbbing or
constant. The pain is so intense that most cluster headache sufferers cannot sit still and will
often pace during an attack.
• Location of Pain: The pain is located behind one eye or in the eye region, without changing
sides. It may radiate to the forehead, temple, nose, cheek, or upper gum on the affected side.
The scalp may be tender, and the pulsing in the arteries often can be felt.
• Duration of Pain: The pain of a cluster headache lasts a short time, generally 30 to 90
minutes. It may, however, last from 15 minutes to three hours. The headache will disappear
only to recur later that day. Typically, in between attacks, people with cluster headaches are
headache free.
• Frequency of Headaches: Most sufferers get one to three headaches per day during a
cluster period (the time when the headache sufferer is experiencing daily attacks). They occur
very regularly, generally at the same time each day, and have been called "alarm clock
headaches" because they often awaken the person at the same time during the night.
Most cluster sufferers (80%-90%) have episodic cluster headaches that occur in periods lasting seven days to
one year, separated by pain-free episodes lasting 14 days or more.
In about 20% of people with cluster headaches, the attacks may be chronic, meaning there are less than 14
headache-free days per year. Chronic cluster headaches vary from episodic cluster headaches, as they are
continuous without remission periods.
Cluster headaches are not typically associated with nausea or vomiting. It is possible for someone with cluster
headaches to also suffer from migraines.
Is There Any Way to Tell That a Cluster Headache Is Coming?
Although the pain of a cluster headache starts suddenly, there may be a few subtle signs of the oncoming
headache. Some signs include:
• Feeling of discomfort or a mild, one-sided burning sensation.

• The eye on the side of the headache may become swollen or droop. The pupil of the eye may
get smaller and the conjunctiva (the pink tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid) will redden.
• Nasal discharge. There may be nasal discharge or congestion and tearing of the eye during
an attack, which occur on the same side as the pain.
• Excessive sweating.
• Flushing of the face on the affected side.
• Light sensitivity.
What Is the Treatment for Cluster Headaches?

• Abortive medications. The most successful treatments are Imitrex (sumatriptan) injections
and breathing oxygen through a face mask for twenty minutes. Other options include:
ergotamine drugs and intranasal lidocaine.
• Preventive medications. Your doctor can prescribe preventive medications to shorten the
length of the cluster headache period as well as decrease the severity of the headaches. All
cluster headache sufferers should take preventive medication unless their cluster periods last
less than two weeks. Some medications used in the prevention of cluster headaches include:
verapamil, lithium, divalproex sodium, prednisone (only short courses), and ergotamine
tartrate.
• Surgery. This may be an option for people with chronic cluster headaches who have not been
helped with standard therapy. Most of the procedures involve blocking the trigeminal nerve.
All of these treatments should be used under the direction of a doctor familiar with treating cluster headaches. As
with any medication, it is important to carefully follow the label instructions and your doctor's advice.
SOURCE:
Reviewed by Jonathan L Gelfand, MD on January 23, 2008
Edited by Lily Jung, MD on December 01, 2006
'Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004
Cysts
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
• What is a cyst?
• What are the causes of a cyst?
• What are the different types of cysts?
• What are cyst symptoms and signs, and how are cysts diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for a cyst?
• Is prevention of cysts possible?
• What is the prognosis of cysts?
• Cysts At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Cysts - Diagnosis
• Patient Discussions: Cysts - Effective Treatments
What is a cyst?
A cyst is a closed, saclike structure that contains fluid, gas, or semisolid material and is not a normal part of the
tissue where it is located. Cysts are common and can occur anywhere in the body in people of any age. Cysts
vary in size; they may be detectable only under a microscope or they can grow so large that they displace normal
organs and tissues. The outer wall of a cyst is called the capsule.
What are the causes of a cyst?

Cysts can arise through a variety of processes in the body, including
• "wear and tear" or simple obstructions to the flow of fluid,
• infections,
• tumors,
• chronic inflammatory conditions,
• genetic (inherited) conditions,
• defects in developing organs in the embryo.
Most cysts arise due to the types of conditions listed above and are only preventable to the extent that the
underlying cause is preventable.
What are cyst symptoms and signs, and how are cysts
diagnosed?
Sometimes you can feel a cyst yourself when you feel an abnormal "lump." For example, cysts of the skin or
tissues beneath the skin are usually noticeable. Cysts in the mammary glands (breasts) also may be palpable
(meaning that you can feel them when you examine the area with your fingers). Cysts of internal organs such as
the kidneys or liver may not produce any symptoms or may not be detected by the affected individual. These
cysts often are first discovered by imaging studies (X-ray, ultrasound, computerized tomography or CAT scan,
and magnetic resonance imaging or MRI). Cysts may or may not produce symptoms, depending upon their size
and location.
This is a picture of a skin cyst, one of hundreds of types of cysts.
What are the different types of cysts?

There are hundreds of different types of cysts that can arise in the body. Here are some of the more well-known
types of cysts:
• Cysts in the breast which are part of benign proliferative ("fibrocystic") disease (fibrocystic
breast disease)
• Ovarian cysts, including dermoid cysts, a specific type of ovarian tumor that often contains
cysts and other tissues
• Cysts within the thyroid gland
• Baker cyst (popliteal) behind the knee
• Ganglion cysts of the joints and tendons
• Cysts of the glands within the eyelid, termed chalazions

• Sebaceous cysts of the small glands in the skin
• Epidermal cysts of the skin, sometimes known as epidermal inclusion cysts, that are
frequently found on the face, scalp, neck, and trunk
• Bartholin cysts, enlargement of small glands near the vaginal opening
• Pineal cysts, cysts within the pineal gland of the brain
• Pancreatic cysts are collections of fluid within the pancreas. Some pancreatic cysts are true
cysts that are lined by cells that secrete fluid. Other pancreatic cysts are pseudocysts and do
not contain specialized lining cells.
• Polycystic kidney disease, an inherited condition in which the kidneys contain multiple cysts
• Tarlov cysts, also known as meningeal or perineural cysts, are located in the sacrum, the
fused bones at the base of the spine.
• Infections and inflammation, such as abscesses and boils on the skin, can also be causes of
cysts.
• Arachnoid cysts are located between the brain or spinal cord and the arachnoid membrane,
one of the three membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
The majority of cysts are benign, but some may produce symptoms due to their size and/or location. Rarely, cysts
can be associated with malignant tumors (cancers) or serious infections. If you're concerned about any abnormal
swelling or lump, talk to your doctor. He or she can recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to determine whether
a cyst is present and the cause of the cyst.
What is the treatment for a cyst?

The treatment for a cyst depends upon the cause of the cyst along with its location. Cysts that are very large and
result in symptoms due to their size may be surgically removed. Sometimes the fluid contained within a cyst can
be drained, or aspirated, by inserting a needle or catheter into the cyst cavity, resulting in collapse of the cyst.
Radiologic imaging may be used for guidance in draining (aspirating) cyst contents if the cyst is not easily
accessible. Drainage or removal of a cyst at home is not advised.
Surgical removal of a cyst is sometimes necessary. If there is any suspicion that a cyst is cancerous, the cyst is
generally removed by surgery or a biopsy is taken of the cyst wall (capsule) to rule out malignancy. In certain
cases, aspirated fluid from a cyst is examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present in the
cyst.
If a cyst arises as part of a chronic medical condition (for example, in polycystic ovary syndrome or fibrocystic
breast disease), treatment is generally directed at the underlying medical condition.
Is prevention of cysts possible?

Prevention of cyst formation is only possible to the extent to which prevention of the underlying cause of the cyst
is possible. Most kinds of cysts are not preventable.
What is the prognosis of cysts?

The majority of cysts are benign conditions and do not result in long-term or serious complications. However,
cysts that are associated with malignancy or serious infections can have a poor prognosis.
Cysts At A Glance
• Cysts are common, closed saclike structures that contains fluid, gas, or semisolid material.
• There are hundreds of different types of cysts.
• Cysts can be located in all areas of the body.
• Superficial cysts may be felt as an abnormal "lump" on the skin. Cysts of internal organs, such
as the liver, kidneys, or pancreas, may not be noticed and may or may not produce symptoms.
Cysts of internal organs may not be noticed and may or may not produce symptoms.
• A number of different processes can result in cyst formation, including blockage of the flow of
fluids, infection, trauma, tumors, congenital defects, and chronic inflammatory conditions.
• The majority of cysts are benign, but certain cases can be associated with malignant tumors.
Additional resources from WebMD Boots UK on Cysts, Lumps and Bumps
REFERENCES:
Hanson, Linda J., and Nathalie C. Zeitouni. "Epidermal Inclusion Cysts." eMedicine.com. May 6, 2010.
<http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1061582-overview>.
Kumar, Vinay, Abul K. Abbas, Nelson Fausto, and Jon Aster. Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of
Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2009.
Fracture
Medical Author: Benjamin C. Wedro, MD, FAAEM
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
• Introduction to fracture
• What causes a fracture?
• What are common types of fractures?
• Stress fracture
• Compression fracture
• Rib fracture
• Skull fracture
• Fracture in children
• How is a fracture diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for a fracture?
• Related a stress fracture article:
Stress Fracture - on eMedicineHealth
• Patient Discussions: Fracture - Causes
• Patient Discussions: Fracture - Describe Your Experience
Introduction to fracture
Bones form the skeleton of the body and allow the body to be supported against gravity and to move and function
in the world. Bones also protect some body parts, and the bone marrow is the production center for blood
products.
Bone is not a stagnant organ. It is the body's reservoir of calcium and is always undergoing change under the
influence of hormones. Parathyroid hormone increases blood calcium levels by leeching calcium from bone, while
calcitonin has the opposite effect, allowing bone to accept calcium from the blood.
What causes a fracture?

When outside forces are applied to bone it has the potential to fail. Fractures occur when bone cannot withstand
those outside forces. Fracture, break, or crack all mean the same thing. One term is not better or worse than
another. The integrity of the bone has been lost and the bone structure fails.
Broken bones hurt for a variety of reasons including:
• The nerve endings that surround bones contain pain fibers and and these fibers become
irritated when the bone is broken or bruised.
• Broken bones bleed, and the blood and associated swelling (edema) causes pain.
• Muscles that surround the injured area may go into spasm when they try to hold the broken
bone fragments in place, and these spasms cause further pain.
Often a fracture is easy to detect because there is obvious deformity. However, at times it is not easily diagnosed.
It is important for the physician to take a history of the injury to decide what potential problems might exist.
Moreover, fractures don't always occur in isolation, and there may be associated injuries that need to be
addressed.
Fractures can occur because of direct blows, twisting injuries, or falls. The type of forces on the bone may
determine what type of injury that occurs. Descriptions of fractures can be confusing. They are based on:
• where in the bone the break has occurred,
• how the bone fragments are aligned, and
• whether any complications exist.
The first step in describing a fracture is whether it is open or closed. If the skin over the break is disrupted, then
an open fracture exists. The skin can be cut, torn, or abraded (scraped), but if the skin's integrity is damaged, the
potential for an infection to get into the bone exists. Since the fracture site in the bone communicates with the
outside world, these injuries need to be cleaned out aggressively and many times require anesthesia in the
operating room to do the job effectively.
Next, there needs to be a description of the fracture line. Does the fracture line go across the bone (transverse),
at an angle (oblique) or does it spiral? Is the fracture in two pieces or is it comminuted, in multiple pieces?
Finally, the fracture's alignment is described as to whether the fracture fragments are displaced or in their normal
anatomic position. If the bones fragments aren't in the right place, they need to be reduced or placed back into
their normal alignment.
What are common types of fractures?
Stress fracture
A stress fracture is an overuse injury. Because of repeated micro-trauma, the bone can fail to absorb the shock
that is being put upon it and become weakened. Most often it is seen in the lower leg, the shin bone (tibia), or
foot. Athletes are at risk the most, because they have repeated footfalls on hard surfaces. Tennis players,
basketball players, jumpers, and gymnasts are typically at risk. A March fracture is the name given to a stress
fracture of the metatarsal or long bones of the foot. (It is named because it often occurs in soldiers who are
required to march long distances.)
Diagnosis is made by history and physical exam, though on occasion a bone scan may be done to confirm the
diagnosis.
Treatment is conservative, rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen. These fractures can take six
to eight weeks to heal (as long as the fracture can be seen on x-ray). Trying to return too quickly can cause re-
injury, and may also allow the stress fracture to extend through the entire bone.
Shin splints may have very similar symptoms as a stress fracture of the tibia but they are due to inflammation of
the lining of the bone, called the periosteum. Shin splints are caused by overuse, especially in runners, walkers,
dancers, including those who do aerobics. Muscles that run through the periosteum and the bone itself may also
become inflamed.
Treatment is similar to a stress fracture and physical therapy can be helpful.
Compression fracture
As people age, there is a potential for the bones to develop osteoporosis, a condition where bones lose their
calcium content. This makes bone more susceptible to breaking. One such type of injury is a compression
fracture to the spine, most often the thoracic or lumbar spine. Since we are an upright animal, if the bones of the
back are weaker than the force of gravity these bones can crumple. Pain is the major complaint, especially with
movement.
Compression injuries of the back may or may not be associated with nerve or spinal cord injury. An x-ray of the
back can reveal the bone injury, however, sometimes a CT scan or MRI will be used to insure that no damage is
done to the spinal cord.
Treatment includes pain medication and often a back brace. Some compression fractures can also be treated with
vertebroplasty. Vertebroplasty involves inserting a glue-like material into the center of the collapsed spinal
vertebra in order to stabilize and strengthen the crushed bone. The glue (methylmethacrylate) is inserted with a
needle and syringe through anesthetized skin into the midportion of the vertebra under the guidance of
specialized x-ray equipment. Once inserted, the glue soon hardens, forming a cast-like structure with the locally
broken bone.
Rib fracture
The ribs are especially vulnerable to injury and are prone to breaking due to a direct blow. Rib x-rays are rarely
taken as it doesn't matter if the rib is broken or just bruised. A chest x-ray is usually taken to make certain there is
no collapse or bruising of the lung.
When we breathe, it is like a bellows. We inhale air into our lungs and the ribs move out and the diaphragm
moves down. When a person has a rib injury, the pain associated with it makes breathing difficult, and the person
has a tendency to not take deep breaths. If the lung underlying the injury does not expand, it is at risk for
infection. The person is then susceptible to pneumonia (lung infection),which is characterized by fever, cough,
and shortness of breath.
As opposed to other parts of the body that can rest when they are injured, it is very important to take deep breaths
to prevent pneumonia when rib fractures are present. The treatment for bruised and broken ribs is the same: ice
to the chest wall, ibuprofen as an anti-inflammatory, deep breaths and pain medication. Even if all goes well, there
will be significant pain for four to six weeks.
With lower rib fractures, there may be concern about organs in the abdomen that the ribs protect. The liver is
located under the ribs on the right side of the chest, and the spleen under the ribs on the left side of the chest.
Many times your doctor may be more worried about abdominal injury than about the broken rib itself. Ultrasound
or CT scan may help diagnosis intra-abdominal injuries.
Skull fracture
With the wide availability of CT scans, skull x-rays are rarely taken to diagnose head injury. If a head injury exists,
the physician will feel or palpate the scalp and skull to determine if there may be a skull fracture. He will also look
into the ears to see if there is blood behind the ear drumm and he will also complete a neurologic examination.
The skull is a flat, compact bone and it takes significant force to break it. If a skull fracture exists, there is an
increased likelihood of bleeding in the brain, especially in children. There are guidelines that are available to
decide whether a CT scan is indicated (needed).
Minor head injury is defined as witnessed loss of consciousness, definite amnesia, or witnessed disorientation in
patients with a GCS (Glasgow Coma Score) score of 13-15. With minor head injury, the following risk groups are
considered when evaluating need for CT brain scan:
High risk for potential neurosurgical operation
• Abnormal neurologic exam within two hours after injury
• Suspected open or depressed skull fracture
• Any sign of basal skull fracture (blood behind the ear drum, blackened eyes, clear fluid
running from the ears, or bruising behind the ear)
• Vomiting - two episodes
• 65 years of age or older

Medium risk (for brain injury on CT)
• Amnesia before impact - more than 30 minutes
• Dangerous mechanism (pedestrian struck by motor vehicle, occupant ejected from motor
vehicle, fall from height greater than 3 feet or five stairs)
Fracture in children
Children can break bones and yet have normal x-rays. Fractures appear as clear lines through the bone on an x-
ray through the bone. If calcium hasn't yet accumulated in the repairing bone, the break may not be apparent.
This lack of calcification happens in two ways.
1. Bones mature at different times in a child's development and while the bony structure is there,
it may have more cartilage than calcium.
2. The second situation is associated with growth plates. Each bone has an area where cell
activity is maximal and where the bone grows. These areas appear as lucent lines on x-ray. It
may be one of the weaker points in the bone as well, and a fracture through the growth plate
may not be seen.
The doctor needs to match the history and physical exam with what is seen on x-ray to make to a diagnosis.
Sometimes, the child is placed in a cast for a period of time to protect the broken limb. As fractures heal, the body
lays down extra calcium as building material and then remodels it to normal shape. After 7-10 days, there may be
evidence on x-ray of the healing calcium to confirm the fracture.
Growth plate fractures are classified by Salter-Harris category. When a break occurs through the growth plate, it
can involve different parts of the bone on each side of the plate. It is important that these fractures are aligned
properly so that the bone grows properly as the child ages. For more, please read the Growth Plate Fractures in
Children article.
Children are more flexible than adults until the calcium completely solidifies their bone. If you think of an arm or
leg bone as tubular, sometimes only one side of the bone breaks, just like an immature branch on a tree. This is
referred to as a greenstick fracture, and may need to be "set" so that it heals properly. Sometimes the bones can
bend but not break because they are so pliable. This is called a plastic deformity and again will need to be set or
aligned to allow proper healing.
How is a fracture diagnosed?

When you arrive for medical care, the doctor will take a history of the injury. Where, when, and why did the injury
occur? Did the person trip and fall, or did they pass out before the fall? Are there other injuries that take
precedence over the fracture? For example, a person who falls and hurts their wrist because they had a stroke or
heart attack will have their fracture care delayed to allow care for the life threatening illness. The injured area will
be examined and a search will happen for potential associated injuries. These include damage to skin, arteries
and nerves.
Pain control is a priority and many times, pain medication will be prescribed before the diagnosis is made. If the
doctor believes that an operation is likely, pain medication will be given through an intravenous (IV) line or by an
injection into the muscle. This allows the stomach to remain empty for potential anesthesia.
A decision will be made whether x-rays are required, and which type of x-ray should be taken to make the
diagnosis and better assess the injury. There are guidelines in place to help doctors decide if an x-ray is
necessary. Some include the Ottawa ankle and knee x-ray rules.
The body is three dimensional, and plain film x-rays are only two dimensional. Therefore, two or three x-rays of
the injured areas may be taken in different positions and planes to give a true picture of the injury. Sometimes the
fracture will not be seen in one position, but is easily seen in another.
There are areas of the body where one bone fracture is associated with another fracture at a more distant part.
For example, the bones of the forearm make a circle and it is difficult to break just one bone in that circle. Think of
trying to break a pretzel in just one place, it is difficult to do. Therefore broken bones at the wrist may be
associated with an elbow injury. Similarly, an ankle injury can be accompanied by a knee fracture. The doctor
may x-ray areas of the body that don't initially appear to be injured.
Occasionally, the broken bone isn't easily seen, but there may be other signs that a fracture exists. In elbow
injuries, fluid seen in the joint on x-ray is an indicator of a subtle fracture. And in wrist injuries, fractures of the
scaphoid or navicular bone may not show up on x-ray for one to two weeks, and diagnosis is made solely on
physical examination with swelling and tenderness over the snuffbox at the base of the thumb.
In children, bones may have numerous growth plates that can cause confusion when reading an x-ray.
Sometimes, the doctor will choose to x-ray the opposite arm or leg to determine what normal is for the child
before deciding whether a fracture exists.
What is the treatment of a fracture?

Initial treatment for fractures of the arms, legs, hands and feet in the field include splinting the extremity in the
position it is found, elevation and ice. Immobilization will be very helpful with initial pain control. For injuries of the
neck and back, many times, first responders or paramedics may choose to place the injured person on a long
board and in a neck collar to protect the spinal cord from potential injury.
Once the fracture has been diagnosed, the initial treatment for most limb fractures is a splint. Padded pieces of
plaster or fiberglass are placed over the injured limb and wrapped with gauze and an elastic wrap to immobilize
the break. The joints above and below the injury are immobilized to prevent movement at the fracture site. This
initial splint does not go completely around the limb. After a few days, the splint is removed and replaced by a
circumferential cast. Circumferential casting does not occur initially because fractures swell (edema). This
swelling would cause a build up of pressure under the cast, yielding increased pain and the potential for damage
to the tissues under the cast.
Surgery
Surgery on fractures are very much dependent on what bone is broken, where it is broken, and whether the
orthopedic surgeon believes that the break is at risk (for staying where it is) once the bone fragments have been
aligned. If the surgeon is concerned that the bones will heal improperly, an operation will be needed. Sometimes
bones that appear to be aligned normally are splinted, and at a recheck appointment, are found to be unstable
and require surgery.
Surgery can include closed reduction and casting, where under anesthesia, the bones are manipulated so that
alignment is restored and a cast is placed to hold the bones in that alignment. Sometimes, the bones are broken
in such a way that they need to have metal hardware inserted to hold them in place. Open reduction means that,
in the operating room, the skin is cut open and pins, plates, or rods are inserted into the bone to hold it in place
until healing occurs. Depending on the fracture, some of these pieces of metal are permanent (never removed),
and some are temporary until the healing of the bone is complete and surgically removed at a later time.
References: Stiell IG, et al. The Canadian CT head rule for patients with minor head injury. Lancet May 5,
2001;357:1391-6. Stiell IG, et al. The Canadian CT head rule for patients with minor head injury. Lancet May 5,
2001;357:1391-6.
Additional resources from WebMD Boots UK on Fractures
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Medical Authors and Editors: Daniel Kulick, MD, FACC, FSCAI and Dennis Lee, MD
Medical Editors: Jay Marks, MD and William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
• What is a heart attack?

• What causes a heart attack?
• What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
• What are the complications of a heart attack?
• What are the risk factors for atherosclerosis and heart attack?
• How is a heart attack diagnosed?
• What about heart attacks in women?
• What are the risk factors for heart attack in women?
• What are the symptoms of heart attack in women and how is heart attack diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for heart attack in women?
• What about hormone therapy and heart attack in women?
• What is new in heart attack?
• Heart Attack At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Heart Attack - Treatments
• Patient Discussions: Heart attack - Symptoms at Onset of Disease
What is a heart attack?

A heart attack (also known as a myocardial infarction) is the death of heart muscle from the sudden blockage of a
coronary artery by a blood clot. Coronary arteries are blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with blood and
oxygen. Blockage of a coronary artery deprives the heart muscle of blood and oxygen,causing injury to the heart
muscle. Injury to the heart muscle causes chest pain and chest pressure sensation. If blood flow is not restored to
the heart muscle within 20 to 40 minutes, irreversible death of the heart muscle will begin to occur. Muscle
continues to die for six to eight hours at which time the heart attack usually is "complete." The dead heart muscle
is eventually replaced by scar tissue.
Approximately one million Americans suffer a heart attack each year. Four hundred thousand of them die as a
result of their heart attack.
What causes a heart attack?

Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a gradual process by which plaques (collections) of cholesterol are deposited in the walls of
arteries. Cholesterol plaques cause hardening of the arterial walls and narrowing of the inner channel (lumen) of
the artery. Arteries that are narrowed by atherosclerosis cannot deliver enough blood to maintain normal function
of the parts of the body they supply. For example, atherosclerosis of the arteries in the legs causes reduced blood
flow to the legs. Reduced blood flow to the legs can lead to pain in the legs while walking or exercising, leg ulcers,
or a delay in the healing of wounds to the legs. Atherosclerosis of the arteries that furnish blood to the brain can
lead to vascular dementia (mental deterioration due to gradual death of brain tissue over many years) or stroke
(sudden death of brain tissue).
In many people, atherosclerosis can remain silent (causing no symptoms or health problems) for years or
decades. Atherosclerosis can begin as early as the teenage years, but symptoms or health problems usually do
not arise until later in adulthood when the arterial narrowing becomes severe. Smoking cigarettes, high blood
pressure, elevated cholesterol, and diabetes mellitus can accelerate atherosclerosis and lead to the earlier onset
of symptoms and complications, particularly in those people who have a family history of early atherosclerosis.
Coronary atherosclerosis (or coronary artery disease) refers to the atherosclerosis that causes hardening and
narrowing of the coronary arteries. Diseases caused by the reduced blood supply to the heart muscle from
coronary atherosclerosis are called coronary heart diseases (CHD). Coronary heart diseases include heart
attacks, sudden unexpected death, chest pain (angina), abnormal heart rhythms, and heart failure due to
weakening of the heart muscle.
Atherosclerosis and angina pectoris
Angina pectoris (also referred to as angina) is chest pain or pressure that occurs when the blood and oxygen
supply to the heart muscle cannot keep up with the needs of the muscle. When coronary arteries are narrowed by
more than 50 to 70 percent, the arteries may not be able to increase the supply of blood to the heart muscle
during exercise or other periods of high demand for oxygen. An insufficient supply of oxygen to the heart muscle
causes angina. Angina that occurs with exercise or exertion is called exertional angina. In some patients,
especially diabetics, the progressive decrease in blood flow to the heart may occur without any pain or with just
shortness of breath or unusually early fatigue.
Exertional angina usually feels like a pressure, heaviness, squeezing, or aching across the chest. This pain may
travel to the neck, jaw, arms, back, or even the teeth, and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea,
or a cold sweat. Exertional angina typically lasts from one to 15 minutes and is relieved by rest or by taking
nitroglycerin by placing a tablet under the tongue. Both resting and nitroglycerin decrease the heart muscle's
demand for oxygen, thus relieving angina. Exertional angina may be the first warning sign of advanced coronary
artery disease. Chest pains that just last a few seconds rarely are due to coronary artery disease.
Angina also can occur at rest. Angina at rest more commonly indicates that a coronary artery has narrowed to
such a critical degree that the heart is not receiving enough oxygen even at rest. Angina at rest infrequently may
be due to spasm of a coronary artery (a condition called Prinzmetal's or variant angina). Unlike a heart attack,
there is no permanent muscle damage with either exertional or rest angina.
Atherosclerosis and heart attack
Occasionally the surface of a cholesterol plaque in a coronary artery may rupture, and a blood clot forms on the
surface of the plaque. The clot blocks the flow of blood through the artery and results in a heart attack (see picture
below). The cause of rupture that leads to the formation of a clot is largely unknown, but contributing factors may
include cigarette smoking or other nicotine exposure, elevated LDL cholesterol, elevated levels of blood
catecholamines (adrenaline), high blood pressure, and other mechanical and biochemical forces.
Unlike exertional or rest angina, heart muscle dies during a heart attack and loss of the muscle is permanent,
unless blood flow can be promptly restored, usually within one to six hours.
While heart attacks can occur at any time, more heart attacks occur between 4:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M. because
of the higher blood levels of adrenaline released from the adrenal glands during the morning hours. Increased
adrenaline, as previously discussed, may contribute to rupture of cholesterol plaques.
Approximately 50% of patients who develop heart attacks have warning symptoms such as exertional angina or
rest angina prior to their heart attacks, but these symptoms may be mild and discounted.
What are the symptoms of a heart attack?

Although chest pain or pressure is the most common symptom of a heart attack, heart attack victims may
experience a variety of symptoms including:
• Pain, fullness, and/or squeezing sensation of the chest
• Jaw pain, toothache, headache
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, vomiting, and/or general epigastric (upper middle abdomen) discomfort
• Sweating
• Heartburn and/or indigestion
• Arm pain (more commonly the left arm, but may be either arm)
• Upper back pain
• General malaise (vague feeling of illness)
• No symptoms (Approximately one quarter of all heart attacks are silent, without chest pain or
new symptoms. Silent heart attacks are especially common among patients with diabetes
mellitus.)
Even though the symptoms of a heart attack at times can be vague and mild, it is important to remember that
heart attacks producing no symptoms or only mild symptoms can be just as serious and life-threatening as heart
attacks that cause severe chest pain. Too often patients attribute heart attack symptoms to "indigestion,"
"fatigue," or "stress," and consequently delay seeking prompt medical attention. One cannot overemphasize the
importance of seeking prompt medical attention in the presence of symptoms that suggest a heart attack.
Early diagnosis and treatment saves lives, and delays in reaching medical assistance can be fatal. A delay
in treatment can lead to permanently reduced function of the heart due to more extensive damage to the heart
muscle. Death also may occur as a result of the sudden onset of arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation.
What are the complications of a heart attack?

Heart failure
When a large amount of heart muscle dies, the ability of the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body is
diminished, and this can result in heart failure. The body retains fluid, and organs, for example, the kidneys, begin
to fail.
Ventricular fibrillation
Injury to heart muscle also can lead to ventricular fibrillation. Ventricular fibrillation occurs when the normal,
regular, electrical activation of heart muscle contraction is replaced by chaotic electrical activity that causes the
heart to stop beating and pumping blood to the brain and other parts of the body. Permanent brain damage and
death can occur unless the flow of blood to the brain is restored within five minutes.
Most of the deaths from heart attacks are caused by ventricular fibrillation of the heart that occurs before the
victim of the heart attack can reach an emergency room. Those who reach the emergency room have an
excellent prognosis; survival from a heart attack with modern treatment should exceed 90%. The 1% to 10% of
heart attack victims who later die frequently had suffered major damage to the heart muscle initially or additional
damage at a later time.
Deaths from ventricular fibrillation can be avoided by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) started within five
minutes of the onset of ventricular fibrillation. CPR requires breathing for the victim and applying external
compression to the chest to squeeze the heart and force it to pump blood. In 2008, the American Heart
Association modified the mouth-to-mouth instruction of CPR, and recommends that chest compressions alone are
effective if a bystander is reluctant to do mouth-to-mouth. When paramedics arrive, medications and/or an
electrical shock (cardioversion) can be administered to convert ventricular fibrillation back to a normal heart
rhythm and allow the heart to pump blood normally. Therefore, prompt CPR and a rapid response by paramedics
can improve the chances of survival from a heart attack. In addition, many public venues now have automatic
external defibrillators (AEDs) that provide the electrical shock needed to restore a normal heart rhythm even
before the paramedics arrive. This greatly improves the chances of survival.
What are the risk factors for atherosclerosis and heart attack?
Factors that increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart attacks include increased blood cholesterol,
high blood pressure, use of tobacco, diabetes mellitus, male gender, and a family history of coronary heart
disease. While family history and male gender are genetically determined, the other risk factors can be modified
through changes in lifestyle and medications.
• High Blood Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia). A high level of cholesterol in the blood is

associated with an increased risk of heart attack because cholesterol is the major component
of the plaques deposited in arterial walls. Cholesterol, like oil, cannot dissolve in the blood
unless it is combined with special proteins called lipoproteins. (Without combining with
lipoproteins, cholesterol in the blood would turn into a solid substance.) The cholesterol in
blood is either combined with lipoproteins as very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), low-density
lipoproteins (LDL) or high-density lipoproteins (HDL).
The cholesterol that is combined with low-density lipoproteins (LDL cholesterol) is the "bad"
cholesterol that deposits cholesterol in arterial plaques. Thus, elevated levels of LDL
cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of heart attack.
The cholesterol that is combined with HDL (HDL cholesterol) is the "good" cholesterol that
removes cholesterol from arterial plaques. Thus, low levels of HDL cholesterol are associated
with an increased risk of heart attacks.
Measures that lower LDL cholesterol and/or increase HDL cholesterol (losing excess weight,
diets low in saturated fats, regular exercise, and medications) have been shown to lower the
risk of heart attack. One important class of medications for treating elevated cholesterol levels
(the statins) have actions in addition to lowering LDL cholesterol which also protect against
heart attack. Most patients at "high risk" for a heart attack should be on a statin no matter what
the levels of their cholesterol.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension). High blood pressure is a risk factor for developing
atherosclerosis and heart attack. Both high systolic pressure (when the heart beats) and high
diastolic pressure (when the heart is at rest) increase the risk of heart attack. It has been
shown that controlling hypertension with medications can reduce the risk of heart attack.
• Tobacco Use (Smoking). Tobacco and tobacco smoke contain chemicals that cause damage
to blood vessel walls, accelerate the development of atherosclerosis, and increase the risk of
heart attack.
• Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus). Both insulin dependent and non-insulin dependent diabetes
mellitus (type 1 and 2, respectively) are associated with accelerated atherosclerosis
throughout the body. Therefore, patients with diabetes mellitus are at risk for reduced blood
flow to the legs, coronary heart disease, erectile dysfunction, and strokes at an earlier age
than non-diabetic subjects. Patients with diabetes can lower their risk through rigorous control
of their blood sugar levels, regular exercise, weight control, and proper diets.
• Male Gender. At all ages, men are more likely than women to develop atherosclerosis and
coronary heart disease. Some scientists believe that this difference is partly due to the higher
blood levels of HDL cholesterol in women than in men. However, this gender difference
narrows as men and women grow older.
• Family History of Heart Disease. Individuals with a family history of coronary heart diseases
have an increased risk of heart attack. Specifically, the risk is higher if there is a family history
of early coronary heart disease, including a heart attack or sudden death before age 55 in the
father or other first-degree male relative, or before age 65 in the mother or other female first-
degree female relative.
How is a heart attack diagnosed?

When there is severe chest pain, suspicion that a heart attack is occurring usually is high, and tests can be
performed quickly that will confirm the heart attack. A problem arises, however, when the symptoms of a heart
attack do not include chest pain. A heart attack may not be suspected, and the appropriate tests may not be
performed. Therefore, the initial step in diagnosing a heart attack is to be suspicious that one has occurred.
Electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a recording of the electrical activity of the heart.

Abnormalities in the electrical activity usually occur with heart attacks and can identify the areas of heart muscle
that are deprived of oxygen and/or areas of muscle that have died. In a patient with typical symptoms of heart
attack (such as crushing chest pain) and characteristic changes of heart attack on the ECG, a secure diagnosis of
heart attack can be made quickly in the emergency room and treatment can be started immediately. If a patient's
symptoms are vague or atypical and if there are pre-existing ECG abnormalities, for example, from old heart
attacks or abnormal electrical patterns that make interpretation of the ECG difficult, the diagnosis of a heart attack
may be less secure. In these patients, the diagnosis can be made only hours later through detection of elevated
cardiac enzymes in the blood.
Blood tests. Cardiac enzymes are proteins that are released into the blood by dying heart muscles. These
cardiac enzymes are creatine phosphokinase (CPK), special sub-fractions of CPK (specifically, the MB fraction of
CPK), and troponin, and their levels can be measured in blood. These cardiac enzymes typically are elevated in
the blood several hours after the onset of a heart attack. A series of blood tests for the enzymes performed over a
24-hour period are useful not only in confirming the diagnosis of heart attack, but the changes in their levels over
time also correlates with the amount of heart muscle that has died.
The most important factor in diagnosing and treating a heart attack is prompt medical attention. Rapid
evaluation allows early treatment of potentially life-threatening abnormal rhythms such as ventricular fibrillation
and allows early reperfusion (return of blood flow to the heart muscle) by procedures that unclog the blocked
coronary arteries. The more rapidly blood flow is reestablished, the more heart muscle that is saved.
Large and active medical centers often have a "chest pain unit" where patients suspected of having heart attacks
are rapidly evaluated. If a heart attack is diagnosed, prompt therapy is initiated. If the diagnosis of heart attack is
initially unclear, the patient is placed under continuous monitoring until the results of further testing are available.
What about heart attacks in women?
What are the risk factors for heart attack in women?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart attacks are erroneously believed to occur primarily in men. Although it is
true that the prevalence of CAD among women is lower before menopause, the risk of CAD rises in women after
menopause. At age 75, a woman's risk for CAD is equal to that of a man's. CAD is the leading cause of death and
disability in women after menopause. In fact, a 50-year-old woman faces a 46% risk of developing CAD and a
31% risk of dying from coronary artery disease. In contrast, her probability of contracting and dying from breast
cancer is 10% and 3%, respectively.
The risk factors for developing CAD in women are the same as in men and include:
• increased blood cholesterol,
• high blood pressure,

• smoking cigarettes,
• diabetes mellitus, and a
• family history of coronary heart disease at a young age.
Smoking cigarettes
Even "light" smoking raises the risk of CAD. In one study, middle-aged women who smoked one to 14 cigarettes
per day had a twofold increase in strokes (caused by atherosclerosis of the arteries to the brain) whereas those
who smoked more than 25 cigarettes per day had a risk of stroke 3.7 fold higher than that of nonsmoking women.
Furthermore, the combination of smoking and the use of birth control pills increase the risk of heart attacks even
further, especially in women over 35.
Quitting smoking immediately begins to reduce the risk of heart attacks. The risk gradually returns to the same
risk of nonsmoking women after several years of not smoking.
Cholesterol treatment guidelines in women
Current NCEP (National Cholesterol Education Program) treatment guidelines for undesirable cholesterol levels
are the same for women as for men.
What are the symptoms of heart attack in women and how is

heart attack diagnosed?
Women are more likely to encounter delays in establishing the diagnosis of heart attack than men. This is in part
because women tend to seek medical care later than men, and in part because diagnosing heart attacks in
women can sometimes be more difficult than diagnosing heart attacks in men. The reasons include:
1. Women are more likely than men to have atypical heart attack symptoms such as:
• neck and shoulder pain,
• abdominal pain,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• fatigue, and
• shortness of breath.
1. Silent heart attacks (heart attacks with little or no symptoms) are more common among
women than among men.
2. Women have a higher occurrence than men of chest pain that is not caused by heart disease,
for example chest pain from spasm of the esophagus.
3. Women are less likely than men to have the typical findings on the ECG that are necessary to
diagnose a heart attack quickly.
4. Women are more likely than men to have angina (chest pain due to lack of blood supply to the
heart muscle) that is caused by spasm of the coronary arteries or caused by disease of the
smallest blood vessels (microvasculature disease). Cardiac catheterization with coronary
angiograms (x-ray studies of the coronary arteries that are considered the most reliable tests
for CAD) will reveal normal coronary arteries and therefore cannot be used to diagnose either
of these two conditions.
5. Women are more likely to have misleading, or "false positive" noninvasive tests for CAD then
men.
Because of the atypical nature of symptoms and the occasional difficulties in diagnosing heart attacks in women,
women are less likely to receive aggressive thrombolytic therapy or coronary angioplasty, and are more likely to
receive it later than men. Women also are less likely to be admitted to a coronary care unit.
What is the treatment for heart attack in women?

Thrombolytic (fibrinolytic or clot dissolving) therapy has been shown to reduce death from heart attacks similarly
in men and women; however, the complication of strokes from the thrombolytic therapy may be slightly higher in
women than in men.
Emergency percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) or coronary stenting for acute heart attack is
as effective in women as in men; however women may have a slightly higher rate of procedure-related
complications in their blood vessels (such as bleeding or clotting at the point of insertion of the PTCA catheter in
the groin) and death. This higher rate of complications has been attributed to women's older age, smaller artery
size, and greater severity of angina. The long-term outcome of angioplasty or stenting however, is similar in men
and women, and should not be withheld due to gender.
The immediate mortality from coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) in women is higher than that for men.
The higher immediate mortality rate has been attributed to women's older age, smaller artery size, and greater
severity of angina (the same as for PTCA). Long term survival, rate of recurrent heart attack and/or need for
reoperation, however, are similar in men and women after CABG.
What about hormone therapy and heart attack in women?

After menopause, the production of estrogen by the ovaries gradually diminishes over several years. Along with
this reduction, there is an increase in LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and a small decrease in HDL ("good" cholesterol).
These changes in lipid levels are believed to be one of the reasons for the increased risks of developing CAD
after menopause. Women who have had their ovaries surgically removed (oophorectomy) or experience an early
menopause, also have an accelerated risk of CAD.
Since treatment with estrogen hormone results in higher HDL and lower LDL cholesterol levels, doctors thought
for many years that estrogen would protect women against CAD (as well protect against dementia and stroke).
Many studies have found that postmenopausal women who take estrogen have lower CAD rates than women
who do not. Unfortunately many of the studies were observational studies (studies in which women are followed
over time but decide on their own whether or not they wish to take estrogen). Observational studies have serious
shortcomings because they are subject to selection bias; for example, women who choose to take estrogen
hormones may be healthier and have a lower risk of heart attacks than those who do not. In other words,
something else in the daily habits of women who take estrogen (such as exercise or healthier diet) may make
them less likely to develop heart attacks. Therefore, only a randomized trial (a study in which women agree to be
assigned to estrogen or a placebo or sugar pill at random but are not told which pills they took until the end of the
study) can establish the whether hormone therapy after menopause can prevent CAD.
HERS trial results
The Heart and Estrogen/progestin Replacement Study (HERS), was a randomized placebo-controlled trial of the
effect of the daily use of estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone (progestin) on the rate of heart attacks in
postmenopausal women who already had CAD. The HERS trial did not find a reduction in heart attacks in women
who took hormone therapy. This lack of benefit in preventing heart attacks occurred despite an 11% lower LDL
and a 10% higher HDL cholesterol level in the women treated with hormones. The study also found that more
women in the hormone-treated group experienced blood clots in the veins and gallbladder disease than women in
the placebo-treated group. (Blood clots in the veins are dangerous because these clots can travel to the lungs
and cause pulmonary embolism, a condition with chest pain, shortness of breath, and even shock and death.)
However, the increase in gallbladder disease and blood clots among healthy users of estrogen who do not have
heart disease is very small.
Based on the results of this study, researchers concluded that estrogen is not effective in preventing coronary
artery disease and heart attacks in postmenopausal women who already have CAD. It should be noted, however,
that the results of the HERS trial only apply to women who have known CAD prior to starting hormone therapy
and not to women without known coronary artery disease.
WHI trial results
The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) was the first randomized controlled trial designed to determine the long-term
benefits and risks of treatment with estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone (progestin) in healthy menopausal
women (women without CAD). The results were reported in a series of articles in 2002, 2003, and 2004. The
estrogen + progestin portion of the WHI study had to be stopped earlier than planned, after just 5.2 years,
because the increase in coronary heart disease, stroke, and pulmonary embolism among women who use
estrogen + progesterone outweighed the benefits of reduced bone fractures and colon cancer. The estrogen-
alone portion of the WHI was stopped because women who took estrogen alone had no reduction in heart attack
risk, yet there was a significant increase in stroke risk.
The increase in breast cancer became apparent after three to five years, but the increase in heart disease and
pulmonary emboli occurred early on, in the first year.
Recommendations for the use of estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone (progestin) in women
Medicinenet Medical Editors believe that:
• Decision regarding use of hormone therapy has to be individualized, and all women should
discuss with their physicians what is best for her.
• Estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone (progestin) is still the best therapy for hot flashes.
Despite the WHI study, many women remain good candidates for estrogens plus
medroxyprogesterone (progestin) therapy (or estrogen alone if they have had hysterectomy).
This is especially true if hormone therapy is limited to the shortest duration, optimally less than
five years.
• Estrogens with or without medroxyprogesterone (progestin) should not be used to prevent or

treat either Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, or stroke.
• While estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone (progestin) are effective in preventing

osteoporosis and related bone fractures, women concerned about the risk of hormone therapy
should discuss with their doctors, the use of other non-hormonal alternatives to prevent and
treat osteoporosis.
What is new in heart attack?

Greater public awareness about heart attacks and changes in lifestyle have contributed to a dramatic reduction in
the incidence of heart attacks during the last four decades. Improved anticoagulant drugs such as hirudin and
hirulog, are being tested and may complement current therapies. The role of the "super aspirins" [abciximab
(Reopro) and eptifibatide (Integrilin)] is currently being investigated as well.
More effective versions of TPA are being developed. Increasingly, paramedics can do ECGs in the field, diagnose
a heart attack, and take patients directly to hospitals that have the ability to do PTCA and stenting. This can save
time and reduce damage to the heart. At present, the accepted best treatment for a heart attack is identification
promptly of the diagnosis, and transport to a hospital that can perform prompt catheterization and PTCA or
stenting within the first 90 minutes of the cardiac event.
Recent data has shown that lowering blood LDL levels even further than previously suggested may further
decrease the risk of heart attacks.
Research also has shown that inflammation may play a role in the development of atherosclerosis, and this is an
active area of current investigation. There also is early evidence that with genetic engineering it may be possible
to develop a drug that can be administered to clear plaques from arteries (a "scavenger molecule").
Heart Attack At A Glance

• A heart attack results when a blood clot completely obstructs a coronary artery supplying
blood to the heart muscle and heart muscle dies.
• The blood clot that causes the heart attack usually forms at the site of rupture of an
atherosclerotic, cholesterol plaque on the inner wall of a coronary artery.
• The most common symptom of heart attack is chest pain.
• The most common complications of a heart attack are heart failure, and ventricular fibrillation.
• The risk factors for atherosclerosis and heart attack include elevated cholesterol levels,
increased blood pressure, tobacco use, diabetes, male gender and a family history of heart
attacks at an early age.
• Heart attacks are diagnosed with electrocardiograms and measurement of cardiac enzymes in
blood
• Early reopening of blocked coronary arteries reduces the amount of damage to the heart and
improves the prognosis for a heart attack.
• Medical treatment for heart attacks may include anti-platelet, anti-coagulant, and clot
dissolving drugs as well as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta blockers and
oxygen.
• Interventional treatment for heart attacks may include coronary angiography with
percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), coronary artery stents, and coronary
artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• Patients suffering a heart attack are hospitalized for several days to detect heart rhythm
disturbances, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
• Further heart attacks can be prevented by aspirin, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, discontinuing
smoking, weight reduction, exercise, good control of blood pressure and diabetes, following a
low cholesterol and low saturated fat diet that is high in omega-3-fatty acids, taking
multivitamins with an increased amount of folic acid, decreasing LDL cholesterol, and
increasing HDL cholesterol.
Click here to read the Heart Attack Treatment article.
Migraine Headache
Medical Editors: Jay W. Marks, MD
• What is a migraine headache?

• What are the symptoms of migraine headaches?
• What are some of the variants of migraine headaches?
• How is a migraine headache diagnosed?
• How are migraine headaches treated?
• What is the treatment for moderate to severe migraine headaches?
• What other medications are used for treating migraine headaches?
• How are migraine headaches prevented?
• What are migraine triggers?
• What should migraine sufferers do?
• What are prophylactic medications for migraine headaches?
• What is the proper way to use preventive medications?
• What is the treatment for menstrual migraine?
• Conclusions
• Patient Discussions: Migraine Headache - Symptoms
• Patient Discussions: Migraine Headache - Effective Treatments
What is a migraine headache?

A migraine headache is a form of vascular headache. Migraine headache is caused by vasodilatation
(enlargement of blood vessels) that causes the release of chemicals from nerve fibers that coil around the large
arteries of the brain. Enlargement of these blood vessels stretches the nerves that coil around them and causes
the nerves to release chemicals. The chemicals cause inflammation, pain, and further enlargement of the artery.
The increasing enlargement of the arteries magnifies the pain.
Migraine attacks commonly activate the sympathetic nervous system in the body. The sympathetic nervous
system is often thought of as the part of the nervous system that controls primitive responses to stress and pain,
the so-called "fight or flight" response, and this activation causes many of the symptoms associated with migraine
attacks; for example, the increased sympathetic nervous activity in the intestine causes nausea, vomiting, and
diarrhea.
• Sympathetic activity also delays emptying of the stomach into the small intestine and thereby
prevents oral medications from entering the intestine and being absorbed.
• The impaired absorption of oral medications is a common reason for the ineffectiveness of
medications taken to treat migraine headaches.
• The increased sympathetic activity also decreases the circulation of blood, and this leads to
pallor of the skin as well as cold hands and feet.
• The increased sympathetic activity also contributes to the sensitivity to light and sound
sensitivity as well as blurred vision.
Migraine afflicts 28 million Americans, with females suffering more frequently (17%) than males (6%). Missed
work and lost productivity from migraine create a significant public burden. Nevertheless, migraine still remains
largely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Less than half of individuals with migraine are diagnosed by their
doctors.
What are the symptoms of migraine headaches?

Migraine is a chronic condition with recurrent attacks. Most (but not all) migraine attacks are associated with
headaches.
• Migraine headaches usually are described as an intense, throbbing or pounding pain that
involves one temple. (Sometimes the pain is located in the forehead, around the eye, or at the
back of the head).
• The pain usually is unilateral (on one side of the head), although about a third of the time the
pain is bilateral (on both sides of the head).
• The unilateral headaches typically change sides from one attack to the next. (In fact, unilateral
headaches that always occur on the same side should alert the doctor to consider a
secondary headache, for example, one caused by a brain tumor).
• A migraine headache usually is aggravated by daily activities such as walking upstairs.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, facial pallor, cold hands, cold feet, and sensitivity to light and
sound commonly accompany migraine headaches. As a result of this sensitivity to light and
sound, migraine sufferers usually prefer to lie in a quiet, dark room during an attack. A typical
attack lasts between 4 and 72 hours.
An estimated 40%-60% of migraine attacks are preceded by premonitory (warning) symptoms lasting hours to
days. The symptoms may include:
• sleepiness,
• irritability,
• fatigue,
• depression or euphoria,
• yawning, and
• cravings for sweet or salty foods.
Patients and their family members usually know that when they observe these warning symptoms that a migraine
attack is beginning.
Migraine aura
An estimated 20% of migraine headaches are associated with an aura. Usually, the aura precedes the headache,
although occasionally it may occur simultaneously with the headache. The most common auras are:
1. flashing, brightly colored lights in a zigzag pattern (referred to as fortification spectra), usually
starting in the middle of the visual field and progressing outward; and
2. a hole (scotoma) in the visual field, also known as a blind spot.
Some elderly migraine sufferers may experience only the visual aura without the headache. A less common aura
consists of pins-and-needles sensations in the hand and the arm on one side of the body or pins-and-needles
sensations around the mouth and the nose on the same side. Other auras include auditory (hearing)
hallucinations and abnormal tastes and smells.
For approximately 24 hours after a migraine attack, the migraine sufferer may feel drained of energy and may
experience a low-grade headache along with sensitivity to light and sound. Unfortunately, some sufferers may
have recurrences of the headache during this period.
What are some variants of migraine headaches?

Complicated migraines are migraines that are accompanied by neurological dysfunction. The part of the body that
is affected by the dysfunction is determined by the part of the brain that is responsible for the headache.
Vertebrobasilar migraines are characterized by dysfunction of the brainstem (the lower part of the brain that is
responsible for automatic activities like consciousness and balance).
The symptoms of vertebrobasilar migraines include:
• fainting as an aura,
• vertigo (dizziness in which the environment seems to be spinning), and
• double vision.
Hemiplegic migraines are characterized by:
• paralysis or weakness of one side of the body,

• mimicking a stroke.
The paralysis or weakness is usually temporary, but sometimes it can last for days.
Retinal, or ocular, migraines are rare attacks characterized by repeated instances of scotomata (blind spots) or
blindness on one side, lasting less than an hour, that can be associated with headache. Irreversible vision loss
can be a complication of this rare form of migraine.
How is a migraine headache diagnosed?

Migraine headaches are usually diagnosed when the symptoms described previously are present. Migraine
generally begins in childhood to early adulthood. While migraines can first occur in an individual beyond the age
of fifty, advancing age makes other types of headaches more likely. A family history usually is present, suggesting
a genetic predisposition in migraine sufferers. The examination of individuals with migraine attacks usually is
normal.
Patients with the first headache ever, worst headache ever, a significant change in the characteristics of
headache or an association of the headache with nervous system symptoms, like visual or hearing or sensory
loss, may require additional tests to exclude diseases other than migraine. The tests may include blood testing,
brain scanning (either CT or MRI), and a spinal tap.
How are migraine headaches treated?

Treatment includes therapies that may or may not involve medications.
Non-medication therapies for migraine

Therapy that does not involve medications can provide symptomatic and preventative therapy.
• Using ice, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques may be helpful in stopping an attack once it
has started.
• Sleep may be the best medicine if it is possible.
Preventing migraine takes motivation for the patient to make some life changes. Patients are educated as to
triggering factors that can be avoided. These triggers include:
• smoking, and
• avoiding certain foods especially those high in tyramine such as sharp cheeses or those
containing sulphites (wines) or nitrates (nuts, pressed meats).
Generally, leading a healthy life-style with good nutrition, an adequate intake of fluids, sufficient sleep and
exercise may be useful. Acupuncture has been suggested to be a useful therapy.
Medication for migraine

Individuals with occasional mild migraine headaches that do not interfere with daily activities usually medicate
themselves with over-the-counter (OTC or non-prescription) pain relievers (analgesics). Many OTC analgesics
are available. OTC analgesics have been shown to be safe and effective for short-term relief of headache (as well
as muscle aches, pains, menstrual cramps , and fever) when used according to the instructions on their labels.
There are two major classes of OTC analgesics:
• acetaminophen (Tylenol), and

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen reduces pain and fever by acting on pain centers in the brain. Acetaminophen is well tolerated
and generally is considered easier on the stomach than NSAIDs. However, acetaminophen can cause severe
liver damage in high (toxic) doses or if used on a regular basis over extended periods of time. In individuals who
regularly consume moderate or large amounts of alcohol, acetaminophen can cause serious damage to the liver
in lower doses that usually are not toxic. Acetaminophen also can damage the kidneys when taken in large doses.
Therefore, acetaminophen should not be taken more frequently or in larger doses than recommended on the
package label.
NSAIDS
The two types of NSAIDs are 1) aspirin and 2) non-aspirin.
Examples of non-aspirin NSAIDs are ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin, Motrin IB, and Medipren) and naproxen (Aleve).
Some NSAIDs are available by prescription only. Prescription NSAIDs are usually prescribed to treat arthritis and
other inflammatory conditions such as bursitis, tendonitis, etc. The difference between OTC and prescription
NSAIDs usually is the amount of the active ingredient contained in each pill. For example, OTC naproxen (Aleve)
contains 220 mg of naproxen per pill, whereas prescription naproxen (Naprosyn) contains 375 or 500 mg of
naproxen per pill.
NSAIDs relieve pain by reducing the inflammation that causes the pain (they are called nonsteroidal
antiinflammatory drugs or NSAIDs because they are different from corticosteroids such as prednisone,
prednisolone, and cortisone which also reduce inflammation). Corticosteroids, though valuable in reducing
inflammation, have predictable and potentially serious side effects, especially when used long-term. Their full
effects also require hours or days. NSAIDs do not have the same side effects that corticosteroids have and their
onset of action is faster.
Aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, and Advil all are NSAIDs and are similarly effective in relieving pain and fever. The main
difference between aspirin and non-aspirin NSAIDs is their effect on platelets, the small particles in blood that
cause blood clots to form. Aspirin prevents the platelets from forming blood clots. Therefore, aspirin can increase
bleeding by preventing blood from clotting though it also can be used therapeutically to prevent clots from causing
heart attacks and strokes. The non-aspirin NSAIDs also have antiplatelet effects, but their antiplatelet action does
not last as long as aspirin, i.e. hours rather than days.
Aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine also are available combined in OTC analgesics for the treatment of
headaches including migraine. Examples of such combination analgesics are Pain-aid, Excedrin, Fioricet, and
Fiorinal.
Finding an effective analgesic or analgesic combination often is a process of trial and error because individuals
respond differently to different analgesics. In general, a person should use the analgesic that has worked in the
past. This will increase the likelihood that an analgesic will be effective and decrease the risk of side effects.
There are several precautions that should be observed with OTC analgesics:
• Children and teenagers should not use aspirin for the treatment of headaches, other pain, or
fever, because of the risk of developing Reye's Syndrome, a life-threatening neurological
disease that can lead to coma and even death.
• People with balance disorders or hearing difficulties should avoid using aspirin because
aspirin may aggravate these conditions.
• People taking blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) should not take aspirin and non-
aspirin NSAIDs without a doctor's supervision because they add further to the risk of bleeding
that is caused by the blood thinner.
• People with active ulcers of the stomach and duodenum should not take aspirin and non-
aspirin NSAIDs because they can increase the risk of bleeding from the ulcer and impair
healing of the ulcer.
• People with advanced liver disease should not take aspirin and non-aspirin NSAIDs because
they may impair kidney function. Deterioration of kidney function in these patients can lead to
failure of the kidneys.
• OTC or prescription analgesics should not be overused. Overuse of analgesics can lead to the
development of tolerance (increasing ineffectiveness of the analgesic) and rebound
headaches (return of the headache as soon as the effect of the analgesic wears off, usually in
the early morning hours). Thus, overuse of analgesics can lead to a vicious cycle of more and
more analgesics for headaches that respond less and less to treatment.
What is the treatment for moderate to severe migraine

headaches?
Migraine-specific abortive medications usually are necessary for moderate to severe migraine headaches. The
abortive medications for moderate or severe migraine headaches are different than OTC analgesics. Instead of
relieving pain, they abort headaches by counteracting the cause of the headache, dilation of the temporal arteries.
In fact, they cause narrowing of the arteries. Examples of migraine-specific abortive medications are the triptans
and ergot preparations.
Triptans
The triptans attach to serotonin receptors on the blood vessels and nerves that surround them, constrict the blood
vessels, and reduce the inflammation. This stops the headache. The triptan with the longest history of use is
sumatriptan (Imitrex). Sumatriptan is available in the US as an injection, oral tablet, and nasal inhaler. Zolmitriptan
(Zomig) and rizatriptan (Maxalt) are newer triptans that are available as oral tablets and as tablets that melt in the
mouth. Naratriptan (Amerge), almotriptan (Axert) and frovatriptan (Frovalan) are available only as oral tablets.
Traditionally, triptans were prescribed for moderate or severe migraines after OTC analgesics and other simple
measures failed. Newer studies suggest that triptans can be used as the first treatment for patients with migraines
that are causing disability. (Significant disability is defined as more than 10 days of at least 50% disability during a
three-month period.). Triptans should be used early after the migraine begins, before the onset of pain or when
the pain is mild. Using a triptan early in an attack increases its effectiveness, reduces side effects, and decreases
the chance of recurrence of another headache during the following 24 hours. Used early, triptans can be expected
to abort more than 80% of migraine headaches within two hours.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about taking triptans together with
medications of the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or SNRI (selective serotonin/norepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor) classes. Taking these medicines together can cause a serious condition called serotonin
syndrome.
Side effects of triptans
The most common side effects of triptans are facial flushing, tingling of the skin, and a sense of tightness around
the chest and throat. Other less common side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness. These side
effects are short-lived and are not considered serious.
The most serious side effects of triptans are heart attacks and strokes. Triptans are effective in migraine
headaches because they narrow arteries in the head; however, they also can narrow arteries in the heart. In
individuals without existing carotid or coronary artery disease, the narrowing caused by triptans usually does not
cause problems. However, persons whose carotid and coronary arteries are narrowed by atherosclerosis or who
suffer from intermittent spasm of the coronary arteries (a condition called Prinzmetal's or variant angina), the
narrowing caused by triptans can further reduce the flow of blood through the arteries and have been reported to
cause heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, triptans should not be used by those who have had heart attacks and
strokes, or those who have symptoms of atherosclerosis such as angina, transient ischemic attack (TIAs), and
intermittent claudication.
Healthy adults may have atherosclerosis and narrowing of the coronary arteries that are "silent", that is, without
past strokes, transient ischemic attacks, heart attacks, or angina. Therefore, before prescribing a triptan, a doctor
should evaluate patients for possible atherosclerosis if they have one or more risk factors for developing
atherosclerosis. These risk factors include cigarette smoking, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, high levels
of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the blood, obesity, male and over 40 years of age, female and postmenopausal, or a
family member(s) who has had heart attacks at an early age. Some patients who are at risk should receive their
first dose of a triptan in the doctor's office while being monitored with an electrocardiogram (EKG).
Triptans can interact with other drugs. For example, there have been rare reports of triptans causing a "serotonin
syndrome" when given together with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medications widely used to treat depression. The symptoms of serotonin
syndrome include confusion, fever, tremor, high blood pressure, diarrhea, and sweating. Certain triptans such as
sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, and rizatriptan can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Propranolol (Inderal) can
raise rizatriptan blood levels. Cimetidine (Tagamet) can increase zolmitriptan blood levels.
Triptans should not be used in pregnant women and are not generally used in young children.
Ergots
Ergots, like triptans, are medications that abort migraine headaches. These may be combined with caffeine and/or
other pain relief medications in combination products. Examples of ergots include ergotamine preparations
(Ergomar, Wigraine, and Cafergot) and dihydroergotamine preparations (Migranal, DHE-45). Ergots, like triptans,
cause constriction of blood vessels, but ergots tend to cause more constriction of vessels in the heart and other
parts of the body than the triptans, and their effects on the heart are more prolonged than those of the triptans.
Therefore, they are not as safe as the triptans. The ergots also are more prone to cause nausea and vomiting
than the triptans. The ergots can cause prolonged contraction of the uterus and miscarriages in pregnant women.
Midrin
Midrin is used to abort migraine and tension headaches. It is a combination of isometheptene (a blood vessel
constrictor), acetaminophen (a pain reliever), and dichloralphenazone (a mild sedative). It is most effective if used
early during a headache; however, because of its potent blood vessel constricting effect, it should not be used in
persons with high blood pressure, kidney disease, glaucoma, atherosclerosis, liver disease, or taking monoamine
oxidase inhibitors.
What other medications are used for treating migraine

headaches?
Narcotics and butalbital-containing medications sometimes are used to treat migraine headaches; however, these
medications are potentially addicting and are not used as initial treatment. They are sometimes used for
individuals whose headaches fail to respond to OTC medications but who are not candidates for triptans either
due to pregnancy or the risk of heart attack and stroke.
In migraine sufferers with severe nausea, a combination of a triptan and an antinausea medication, for example,
prochlorperazine (Compazine) or metoclopramide (Reglan) may be used. When nausea is severe enough that
oral medications are impractical, intravenous medications such as DHE-45 (dihydroergotamine), prochlorperazine
(Compazine), and valproate (Depacon) are useful.
How are migraine headaches prevented?

There are two ways to prevent migraine headaches: 1) by avoiding factors ("triggers") that cause the headaches,
and 2) by preventing headaches with medications (prophylactic medications). Neither of these preventive
strategies is 100% effective. The best one can hope for is to reduce the frequency of headaches.
What are migraine triggers?

A migraine trigger is any environmental or physiological factor that leads to a headache in individuals who are
prone to develop headaches. Only a small proportion of migraine sufferers, however, clearly can identify triggers.
Examples of triggers include:
• stress,
• sleep disturbances,
• fasting,
• hormones,
• bright or flickering lights,
• odors,
• cigarette smoke,
• alcohol,
• aged cheeses,
• chocolate,
• monosodium glutamate,
• nitrites,
• aspartame, and
• caffeine.
For some women, the decline in the blood level of estrogen during the onset of menstruation is a trigger for
migraine headaches (sometimes referred to as menstrual migraines).
The interval between exposure to a trigger and the onset of headache varies from hours to two days. Exposure to
a trigger does not always lead to a headache. Conversely, avoidance of triggers cannot completely prevent
headaches. Different migraine sufferers respond to different triggers, and any one trigger will not induce a
headache in every person who has migraine headaches.
Sleep and migraine

Disturbances such as sleep deprivation, too much sleep, poor quality of sleep, and frequent awakening at night
are associated with both migraine and tension headaches, whereas improved sleep habits have been shown to
reduce the frequency of migraine headaches. Sleep also has been reported to shorten the duration of migraine
headaches.
Fasting and migraine

Fasting possibly may precipitate migraine headaches by causing the release of stress-related hormones and
lowering blood sugar. Therefore, migraine sufferers should avoid prolonged fasting.
Bright lights and migraine

Bright lights and other high intensity visual stimuli can cause headaches in healthy subjects as well as patients
with migraine headaches, but migraine people who suffer from migraines seem to have a lower than normal
threshold for light-induced headache pain. Sunlight, television, and flashing lights all have been reported to
precipitate migraine headaches.
Caffeine and migraine

Caffeine is contained in many food products (cola, tea, chocolates, coffee) and OTC analgesics. Caffeine in low
doses can increase alertness and energy, but caffeine in high doses can cause insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and
headaches. The over-use of caffeine-containing analgesics causes rebound headaches. Furthermore, individuals
who consume high levels of caffeine regularly are more prone to develop withdrawal headaches when caffeine is
stopped abruptly.
Chocolate, wine, tyramine, MSG, nitrites, aspartame and migraine

Chocolate has been reported to cause migraine headaches, but scientific studies have not consistently
demonstrated an association between chocolate consumption and headaches. Red wine has been shown to
cause migraine headaches in some migraine sufferers, but it is not clear whether white wine also will cause
migraine headaches.
Tyramine (a chemical found in cheese, wine, beer, dry sausage, and sauerkraut) can precipitate migraine
headaches, but there is no evidence that consuming a low-tyramine diet can reduce migraine frequency.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) has been reported to cause headaches, facial flushing, sweating, and palpitations
when consumed in high doses on an empty stomach. This phenomenon has been called Chinese restaurant
syndrome.
Nitrates and nitrites (chemicals found in hot dogs, ham, frankfurters, bacon and sausages) have been reported to
cause migraine headaches.
Aspartame, a sugar-substitute sweetener found in diet drinks and snacks, has been reported to trigger headaches
when used in high doses for prolonged periods.
Female hormones and migraine

Some women who suffer from migraine headaches experience more headaches around the time of their
menstrual periods. Other women experience migraine headaches only during the menstrual period. The term
"menstrual migraine" is used mainly to describe migraines that occur in women who have almost all of their
headaches from two days before to one day after their menstrual periods. Declining levels of estrogen at the
onset of menses is likely to be the cause of menstrual migraines. Decreasing levels of estrogen also may be the
cause of migraine headaches that develop among users of birth control pills during the week that estrogens are
not taken.
What should migraine sufferers do?

Individuals with mild and infrequent migraine headaches that do not cause disability may require only OTC
analgesics. Individuals who experience several moderate or severe migraine headaches per month or whose
headaches do not respond readily to medications should avoid triggers and consider modifications of their
lifestyle. Lifestyle modifications for migraine sufferers include:
• Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day.
• Exercise regularly (daily if possible). Make a commitment to exercise even when traveling or
during busy periods at work. Exercise can improve the quality of sleep and reduce the
frequency and severity of migraine headaches. Build up your exercise level gradually. Over-
exertion, especially for someone who is out of shape, can lead to migraine headaches.
• Do not skip meals, and avoid prolonged fasting.
• Limit stress through regular exercise and relaxation techniques.
• Limit caffeine consumption to less than two caffeine-containing beverages a day.
• Avoid bright or flashing lights and wear sunglasses if sunlight is a trigger.

• Identify and avoid foods that trigger headaches by keeping a headache and food diary.
Review the diary with your doctor. It is impractical to adopt a diet that avoids all known
migraine triggers; however, it is reasonable to avoid foods that consistently trigger migraine
headaches.
What are prophylactic medications for migraine headaches?

Prophylactic medications are medications taken daily to reduce the frequency and duration of migraine
headaches. They are not taken once a headache has begun. There are several classes of prophylactic
medications:
• beta blockers,
• calcium-channel blockers,
• tricyclic antidepressants,
• antiserotonin agents, and
• anticonvulsants.
Medications with the longest history of use are propranolol (Inderal), a beta blocker, and amitriptyline (Elavil,
Endep), an antidepressant. When choosing a prophylactic medication for a patient the doctor must take into
account side effects of the drug, drug-drug interactions, and co-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart
disease, and high blood pressure.
Beta blockers
Beta-blockers are a class of drugs that block the effects of beta-adrenergic substances produced by the body,
specifically the nerves and the adrenal gland, such as adrenaline (epinephrine). By blocking the effects of
adrenaline, beta-blockers relieve stress on the heart by slowing the rate at which the heart beats. Beta-blockers
have been used to treat high blood pressure, angina, certain types or tremors, stage fright, and abnormally fast
heart beats (palpitations). They also have become important drugs for improving survival after heart attacks. Beta-
blockers have been used for many years to prevent migraine headaches.
It is not known how beta-blockers prevent migraine headaches. It may be by decreasing prostaglandin production,
though it also may be through their effect on serotonin or a direct effect on arteries. The beta-blockers used in
preventing migraine headaches include propranolol (Inderal), atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor,
Lopressor LA, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard), and timolol (Blocadren).
Beta-blockers generally are well-tolerated. They can aggravate breathing difficulties in patients with asthma,
chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. In patients who already have slow heart rates (bradycardias) and heart block
(defects in electrical conduction within the heart), beta-blockers can cause dangerously slow heartbeats. Beta-
blockers can aggravate symptoms of heart failure. Other side effects include drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation,
fatigue, decrease in endurance, insomnia, nausea, depression, dreaming, memory loss, impotence.
Tricyclic antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) prevent migraine headaches by altering the neurotransmitters, norepinephrine
and serotonin, that the nerves of the brain use to communicate with one another. The tricyclic antidepressants
that have been used in preventing migraine headaches include amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep), nortriptyline
(Pamelor, Aventyl), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), and protriptyline.
The most commonly encountered side effects associated with TCAs are fast heart rate, blurred vision, difficulty
urinating, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain or loss, and low blood pressure when standing (orthostatic
hypotension).
TCAs should not be used with drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine
(Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and procarbazine (Matulane), since high fever, convulsions and even death
may occur. TCAs are used with caution in peole with seizures, since they can increase the risk of seizures. TCAs
also are used with caution in men with enlargement of the prostate because they can make urination difficult.
TCAs can cause elevated pressure in the eyes in some glaucoma sufferers. TCAs can cause excessive sedation
when used with other medications that slow the brain's processes, such as alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics, and
benzodiazepines, for example, lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium), temazepam (Restoril), oxazepam (Serax),
clonazepam (Klonopin), and zolpidem (Ambien). Epinephrine should not be used with amitriptyline, since the
combination can cause severe high blood pressure
Antiserotonin medications
Methysergide (Sansert) prevents migraine headaches by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation of
the blood vessels. Methylergonovine is related chemically to methysergide and has a similar mechanism of
action. They are not widely used because of their side effects. The most serious side effect of methysergide is
retroperitoneal fibrosis (scarring of tissue around the ureters that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).
Retroperitoneal fibrosis, though rare, can block the ureters and cause backup of urine into the kidneys. Backup of
urine into the kidneys can cause back and flank (the side of the body between the ribs and hips) pain and
ultimately can lead to kidney failure. Methysergide also has been reported to cause scarring around the lungs that
can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, as well as scarring of the heart valves.
Calcium channel blockers

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a class of drugs that block the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the
heart and the arteries. By blocking the entry of calcium, CCBs reduce contraction of the heart muscle, decrease
heart rate, and lower blood pressure. CCBs are used for treating high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart
rhythms (for example, atrial fibrillation). CCBs also appear to block the effects of a chemical within nerves, called
serotonin, and have been used occasionally to prevent migraine headaches. The CCBs used in preventing
migraine headaches are diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac), verapamil (Calan, Verelan, Isoptin), and
nimodipine.
The most common side effects of CCBs are constipation, nausea, headache, rash, edema (swelling of the legs
with fluid), low blood pressure, drowsiness, and dizziness. When diltiazem or verapamil are given to individuals
with heart failure, symptoms of heart failure may worsen because these drugs reduce the ability of the heart to
pump blood. Verapamil and diltiazem may reduce the elimination and increase the blood levels of carbamazepine
(Tegretol), simvastatin (Zocor), atorvastatin (Lipitor), and lovastatin (Mevacor). This can lead to toxicity from these
drugs.
Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants (antiseizure medications) also have been used to prevent migraine headaches. Examples of
anticonvulsants that have been used are valproic acid, phenobarbital, gabapentin, and topiramate. It is not known
how anticonvulsants work to prevent migraine headaches.
Who should consider prophylactic medications to prevent migraine headaches?
Not all migraine sufferers need prophylactic medications; individuals with mild or infrequent headaches that
respond readily to abortive medications do not need prophylactic medications. Individuals who should consider
prophylactic medications are those who:
1. Require abortive medications for migraine headaches more frequently than twice weekly.
2. Have two or more migraine headaches a month that do not respond readily to abortive
medications.
3. Have migraine headaches that are interfering substantially with their quality of life and work.
4. Cannot take abortive medications because of heart disease, stroke, or pregnancy, or cannot
tolerate abortive medications because of side effects.
How effective are prophylactic medications?

Prophylactic medications can reduce the frequency and duration of migraine headaches but cannot be expected
to eliminate migraine headaches completely. The success rate of most prophylactic medications is approximately
50%. Success in preventing migraine headaches is defined as more than a 50% reduction in the frequency of
headaches. Prophylactic medications usually are begun at a low dose that is increased slowly in order to
minimize side effects. Individuals may not notice a reduction in the frequency, severity, or duration of their
headaches for 2 to 3 months after starting treatment.
What is the proper way to use preventive medications?

• Doctors familiar with the treatment of migraine headaches should prescribe preventive
medications.
• Decisions about which preventive medication to use are based on the side effects of the
medication and the presence of any medical conditions.
• Propranolol (Inderal) often is used first, provided that the individual does not have asthma,
COPD, or heart disease. Amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep) also is used commonly.
• Preventive medications are begun at low doses and gradually increased to higher doses if
needed. This minimizes side effects from the medications. Preventive medications are to be
taken daily for months to years. When they are stopped, the dose needs to be gradually
reduced rather than abruptly stopped. Abruptly stopping preventive medications can lead to
headaches.
• In some instances, more than one drug may be needed. Non-medication and behavioral
therapies also may be needed.
What is the treatment for menstrual migraine?

There are several aspects to treating menstrual migraines:
1. To abort menstrual migraine, take medications after the onset of menstrual migraine.
Generally, medications that are effective in aborting non-menstrual migraines are effective at
aborting menstrual migraines.
2. To prevent menstrual migraine, take medications just before the onset of menstruation and
continue for the duration of the expected headache. Taking hormones such as estrogens or
estrogen-related medications also help to prevent migraine.
3. To reduce the frequency and duration of menstrual migraine, take prophylactic medications
(such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants)
that are normally used on a continuous basis to prevent non-menstrual migraines.
NSAIDs such as naproxen sodium (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) have been used effectively to abort
menstrual migraines. A combination analgesic containing acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine (ACC) can also be
used to treat menstrual migraines. For women whose menstruation and menstrual migraines occur on a regular
and predictable pattern, NSAIDs may be used 24 hours before the expected onset of menstrual migraine and
continued for the expected duration of the headache. Since NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandins, they have the added
benefit of relieving menstrual cramps as well. For NSAIDs side effects and precautions, please read the
"Medication therapies for migraine" section of this article.
Triptans (naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan) have been found to be effective in aborting menstrual
migraines, as well as controlling the associated nausea and vomiting. Sumatriptan given two to three days before
and continued for the duration of the expected headache was found to be effective in reducing the frequency and
severity of menstrual migraine. Naratriptan used in the same manner has also been found to be effective in
preventing menstrual migraine. However, in those cases where breakthrough headaches occurred, they were just
as severe as in patients taking placebo. For side effects and precautions of triptans, please read the "Triptans"
section of this article.
Dihydroergotamine (DHE) can be used as a nasal spray or given intramuscularly or intravenously to abort
menstrual migraines. Ergotamine (oral, rectal, or intranasal) and DHE (intranasal, intramuscular, or intravenous)
can be used around the time of menstruation (several days before and continued for the duration of the expected
headache) to prevent menstrual migraines. For ergot side effects and precautions, please read the "Ergots"
section in this article.
If these medications are ineffective, doctors may try daily preventive medications such as beta-blockers,
anticonvulsants, calcium channel blockers, and tricyclic antidepressants to reduce the frequency and the severity
of menstrual migraines. The choice of the preventive medications is based on the experiences and preferences of
the doctor, the medication side effects, and the woman's other associated medical conditions.
For women already taking preventive medications and yet still experience headaches, the doses of preventive
medications can be increased around the time of the menstruation (some doctors use preventive medications
only around the time of menstruation). Alternatively doctors may try hormone treatment.
Since a drop in estrogen level just prior to menstruation is the trigger for menstrual migraines, estrogen
replacement before menstruation has been used in preventing menstrual migraines. For some women with
menstrual migraine, Estradiol skin patches (such as TTS 50, TTS 100) applied 2 days before and continued for 7
days during the expected headache period is effective. However, the dose of estrogen must be closely monitored,
as too high of a dose can actually trigger migraine in susceptible individuals.
Some women with difficult to treat menstrual migraines may be helped by using low dose oral contraceptives to
reduce the estrogen fluctuations. Other less frequently used medications for menstrual migraines include
tamoxifen, bromocriptine, danazol and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
Conclusions
Migraine is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. There is no cure for migraine. Nevertheless, there are
numerous measures that may help improve the life of migraine sufferers. The choice of these measures should
take into account the individual aspects of each migraine sufferer. Triggering factors, nerve inflammation, blood
vessel changes, and pain are each addressed aggressively. Individualizing treatment is essential for optimal
outcome.
Additional resources from WebMD Boots UK on Migraines and Headaches
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Vincenza Snow, MD. Acute Migraine Treatment Guideline. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2003 Oct 1;
139(7):603-4.
Previous contributing author and editor: Dennis Lee, MD and Harley I. Kornblum, MD, PhD
Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection or Inflammation)

Medical Author: David Perlstein, MD FAAP
• What is otitis media (middle ear infection or inflammation)?

• How common is acute otitis media?
• Why do young children tend to have ear infections?
• How does the Eustachian tube change as a child gets older?
• What microorganisms cause otitis media?
• What is the relationship between bottle-feeding and otitis media?
• What are the risk factors for acute otitis media?
• What are the symptoms of acute otitis media?
• How is acute otitis media treated?
• What causes chronic otitis media?
• What happens to the eardrum in chronic otitis media?
• What happens to the eardrum if a hole develops in the eardrum?
• How is chronic otitis media treated?
• What are the goals of chronic otitis media surgery?
• What is serous otitis media?
• What limitations are there on a child with otitis media?
• Otitis Media At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Otitis Media - Effective Treatments
What is otitis media?

Otitis media is inflammation of the middle ear. "Otitis" means inflammation of the ear, and "media" means middle.
This inflammation often begins with infections that cause sore throats, colds or other respiratory problems, and
spreads to the middle ear. These can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and can be acute or chronic.
Acute otitis media is usually of rapid onset and short duration. Acute otitis media is typically associated with fluid
accumulation in the middle ear together with signs or symptoms of ear infection; a bulging eardrum usually
accompanied by pain, or a perforated eardrum, often with drainage of purulent material (pus). Fever can be
present.
Chronic otitis media is a persistent inflammation of the middle ear, typically for a minimum of a month. This is in
distinction to an acute ear infection (acute otitis media) that usually lasts only several weeks. Following an acute
infection, fluid (an effusion) may remain behind the ear drum (tympanic membrane) for up to three months before
resolving. Chronic otitis media may develop after a prolonged period of time with fluid (effusion) or negative
pressure behind the eardrum (tympanic membrane). Chronic otitis media can cause ongoing damage to the
middle ear and eardrum and there may be continuing drainage through a hole in the eardrum. Chronic otitis
media often starts painlessly without fever. Ear pressure or popping can be persistent for months. Sometimes a
subtle loss of hearing can be due to chronic otitis media.
How common is acute otitis media?

Otitis media is the most common diagnosis in sick children in the U.S. It is estimated that 75% of all children
experience at least one episode before the age of three.
Why do young children tend to have ear infections?

The Eustachian tube, a canal that runs from the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat, is shorter and more
horizontal in young children than in older children and adults. This allows easier entry into the middle ear for the
microorganisms that cause infection and lead to otitis media. The result is that children are at greater risk of
acquiring ear infections than adults.
How does the Eustachian tube change as a child gets older?

As an individual ages, the Eustachian tube doubles in length and becomes more vertically positioned so that the
nasopharyngeal orifice (opening) in the adult is significantly below the tympanic orifice (the opening in the middle
ear near the ear drum). The greater length and particularly the slope of the tube as it grows serves more
effectively to protect, aerate and drain the middle ear.
What microorganisms cause otitis media?

Bacteria and viruses can cause otitis media. Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus),
nontypable Hemophilus influenzae and Moraxella account for about 85% of cases of acute otitis media. Viruses
account for the remaining 15%. Affected infants under six weeks of age tend to have infections from a variety of
different bacteria in the middle ear.
What is the relationship between bottle-feeding and otitis media?
Bottle-feeding is a risk factor for developing otitis media. The position of the breastfeeding child is better than that
of the bottle-feeding position in terms of function of the Eustachian tube that leads into the middle ear. If a child
needs to be bottle-fed, it is best to hold the infant rather than allow the child to lie down with the bottle. Ideally, the
child should not take the bottle to bed. (In addition to increasing the chance for acute otitis media, falling asleep
with milk in the mouth enhances the risk of tooth decay.)
What are the risk factors for acute otitis media?

Upper respiratory infections predispose to acute otitis media. Exposure to groups of children (as in child care
centers) results in more frequent colds, and therefore more earaches. Exposure to air with irritants, such as
tobacco smoke, also increases the chance of otitis media. Children with cleft palate or Down syndrome are prone
to ear infections.
Children who have episodes of acute otitis media before six months of age tend to have more ear infections later
in childhood.
What are the symptoms of acute otitis media?

Young children with otitis media may be irritable, fussy, or have problems feeding or sleeping. Older children may
complain about pain and fullness in the ear (earache). Fever may be present in a child of any age. These
symptoms are often associated with signs of upper respiratory infection such as a runny or stuffy nose, or a
cough.
The buildup of pus within the middle ear causes pain and dampens the vibrations of the eardrum (so there is
usually temporary hearing loss during the infection).
Severe ear infections may cause the eardrum to rupture. The pus then drains from the middle ear into the ear
canal. The hole in the eardrum from the rupture usually heals with medical treatment.
How is acute otitis media treated?

The treatment for acute otitis media varies depending upon the age and symptoms of the child. The American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend the following:
AAP and AAFP Recommendations

Age Certain Diagnosis Uncertain Diagnosis
<6 months Antibiotics Antibiotics
Antibiotics if severe illness; *Observation
6 months-2years Antibiotics without antibiotics option if non-severe
illness
Antibiotics if severe illness;
≥2 years *Observation option if non- *Observation option without antibiotics
severe illness
*Observation is an appropriate option only when follow-up can be ensured and antibacterial agents can be started
if symptoms persist or worsen. Non-severe illness is represented by mild ear pain and fever <39°C (102.2°F) in
the past 24 hours. Severe illness is moderate to severe otalgia (ear pain) or fever 39°C.
If antibiotics are initiated, Amoxicillin is usually recommended as the first line treatment. This is usually prescribed
for 10 days. About 10% of children do not respond within the first 48-72 hours of treatment, and antibiotic therapy
may have to be changed. Even after antibiotic treatment, 40% of children are left with some fluid in the middle ear
which can cause temporary hearing loss lasting for up to 3 to 6 weeks. In most children, this fluid eventually
disappears spontaneously (on its own).
Children who have recurring bouts of otitis media may be referred to an otolaryngologist (ear nose and throat
specialist or ENT). Some of these children may benefit from having an ear tube placed (tympanostomy tube) to
permit fluid to drain from the middle ear. In addition, if a child has a bulging eardrum and is experiencing severe
pain, a procedure to lance the eardrum (myringotomy) may be recommended to release the pus. The eardrum
usually heals within a week.
What causes chronic otitis media?

The Eustachian tube normally prevents the accumulation of fluid by allowing fluid to drain through the tube.
Chronic otitis media develops over time, and often starts with a chronic middle ear effusion (fluid) that does not
resolve. This persistent fluid will often become contaminated with bacteria, and the bacteria found in chronic otitis
media are often different from those found in acute otitis media. Therefore, anything that disturbs the function of
the Eustachian tube can lead to chronic otitis media.
What happens to the eardrum in chronic otitis media?

The eardrum (tympanic membrane) has three delicate layers that help keep the eardrum thin, but strong. A
chronic middle ear infection causes changes in the eardrum that weaken it, and often lead to a hole in the
eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation). Eventually, the eardrum looses its strength and begins to collapse into
the middle ear space.
When the eardrum collapses, it can attach to the other middle ear structures. It is frequently seen draped around
the middle ear bones (ossicles) or the inner wall of the middle ear (promontory). This disrupts the conduction of
sound through the middle ear, and may diminish hearing.
What happens to the eardrum if a hole develops in the eardrum?

A hole that forms in the eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation) usually causes a chronic draining ear, or a
condition called chronic otitis media with perforation. Often the drainage (otorrhea) will have a foul odor and can
be seen draining from the ear. Hearing can improve after the middle ear fluid is released, or it may worsen
secondary to the inflammation in the middle ear.
How is chronic otitis media treated?

Initially, antibiotics may resolve the infection. If a tympanic membrane perforation is also present, topical antibiotic
drops may be used. If eardrum or ossicle scarring has occurred, that will not be reversed with antibiotics alone.
Surgery is often indicated to repair the tympanic membrane (eardrum), remove the infected tissue and scar from
the middle ear and the mastoid bone.
What are the goals of chronic otitis media surgery?

The goals of surgery are to first remove all of the infected tissue so that it can be "safe" from recurrent infections.
The second goal is to recreate a middle ear space with an intact eardrum. Finally, hearing is to be restored. This
may seem strange that hearing is the last priority, but if the first two priorities are not met, anything that is done to
improve hearing will ultimately fail. If hearing is restored, but the infection returns, the hearing will be lost again.
Likewise, if hearing is restored, but the middle ear space is not recreated, the eardrum will re-stick to the middle
ear or the ossicles.
What is serous otitis media?

Serous otitis media is inflammation in the middle ear without infection. Typically, the Eustachian tube is not
functioning and cannot ventilate the ear normally. As a result, fluid accumulates in the middle-ear. This can lead
to a dullness or fullness within the ear along with diminished hearing.
What limitations are there on a child with otitis media?

Otitis media is not contagious (although the initial cold that caused it may be). A child with otitis media can travel
by airplane but, if the Eustachian tube is not working well, the pressure change as the plane descends may cause
the child pain. It is best not to fly (or swim) with a draining ear. You should always consult your physician if you
have specific concerns.
Otitis Media At A Glance
• Otitis media is the most common diagnosis in sick children in the U.S.
• Otitis media is an infection and inflammation of the middle ear.
• Otitis media causes fluid buildup in the middle ear.
• A cold or other respiratory infection can lead to otitis media.
• Exposure to other children's colds, as in daycare, raises the risk.
• Bottle-feeding increases the risk of otitis media in babies.
• Otitis media features fever, ear pain and fullness, as well as fussiness and feeding problems
in young children.
• Middle ear pus causes pain and temporary hearing loss.
• Rupture of the eardrum allows the pus to drain into the ear canal.
• Otitis media is treated with observation, antibiotics, or ear tubes.
Previous contributing author: James K. Bredenkamp, MD, FACS
Reference: PEDIATRICS Vol. 113 No. 5 May 2004, pp. 1451-1456
Sinus Infection
Medical Author: Charles C. P. Davis, MD, PhD
• What is a sinus?
• What is a sinus infection?
• What causes sinus infections?
• What are the types of sinusitis?
• What are the signs and symptoms of sinus infection?
• How is sinus infection diagnosed?
• How is sinus infection treated?
• Are there home remedies for a sinus infection?
• What are complications of sinus infection?
• Can sinus infection be prevented?
• Sinus Infection At A Glance
• Related sinus infection article:
Sinus infection - on eMedicineHealth
• Patient Discussions: Sinus Infection - Symptoms
• Patient Discussions: Sinus Infection - Effective Treatments
What is a sinus?
A sinus is a hollow, air-filled cavity. For the purposes of this article, a sinus will referred to those hollow cavities
that are in the skull and connected to the nasal airway by a narrow hole in the bone (ostium). Normally all are
open to the nasal airway through an ostium. Humans have four pair of these cavities each referred to as the:
1. frontal sinus (in forehead),
2. maxillary sinus (behind cheeks),
3. ethmoid sinus (between the eyes), and
4. sphenoid sinus (deep behind the ethmoids).
The four pair of sinuses are often described as a unit and termed the "paranasal sinuses." The cells of the inner
lining of each sinus are mucus-secreting cells, epithelial cells and some cells that are part of the immune system
(macrophages, lymphocytes, and eosinophils).
Functions of the sinuses include humidifying and warming inspired air, insulation of surrounding structures (eyes,
nerves), increasing voice resonance, and as buffers against facial trauma. The sinuses decrease the weight of the
skull.
Picture of the anatomy of the sinuses

What is a sinus infection?
A sinus infection occurs when a pathogenic organism (virus, bacterium, or a fungus) grows within a sinus and
causes intermittent blockage of the sinus ostium. Drainage of mucus and pus often occur when the blockage is
relieved. The drainage usually goes from the nasal passages to the throat or out the nostrils. Such infections also
cause inflammation (an influx of immune cells and swelling of the sinus tissue) of one or more sinuses. This adds
to blocking the openings of the sinuses and causes discomfort.
Inflammation of the air cavities within the passages of the nose (paranasal sinuses) is referred to as sinusitis.
Sinusitis can be caused by infection, but can also be caused by allergy and irritation of the sinuses.
Sinusitis is one of the more common conditions that can afflict people throughout their lives. Sinusitis commonly
occurs when environmental pollens irritate the nasal passages, such as with hay fever. Sinusitis can also result
from irritants, such as chemicals or the use and/or abuse of over-the-counter (OTC) nasal sprays, and illegal
substances that may be snorted through the nose. About 30 million adults have "sinusitis."
What causes sinus infections?

Sinus infection may be initiated caused by anything that interferes with airflow into the sinuses and the drainage
of mucus out of the sinuses. The sinus openings (ostea) may be blocked by swelling of the tissue lining and
adjacent nasal passage tissue, for example with common colds, allergies, and tissue irritants such as OTC nasal
sprays, cocaine, and cigarette smoke. Sinuses can also become blocked by tumors or growths that are near the
sinus openings.
The drainage of mucous from the sinuses can also be impaired by thickening of the mucous secretions, by
decrease in hydration (water content) of the mucous brought on by disease (cystic fibrosis), drying medications
(antihistamines), and lack of sufficient humidity in the air. The epithelial cells have small hairlike fibers, called cilia,
which move back and forth to help the mucus move out of the sinuses. These small cilia may be damaged by
many irritants, especially smoke. This can prevent them from assisting the mucus in draining from the sinuses.
Stagnated mucus provides an environment for bacteria, viruses and in some circumstances (for example, AIDS or
immunodepressed persons) fungus to grow within the sinus cavities. In addition, the microbes themselves can
initiate and exacerbate sinus blockage. The most commonly infected sinuses are the maxillary and ethmoid
sinuses.
What are the types of sinusitis?

Sinusitis may be classified in at several ways, based on the time span of the problem (acute, subacute, or
chronic) and the type of inflammation (either infectious or noninfectious).
• Acute sinus infection (also termed acute sinusitis caused by infection) is usually defined as
being of less than 30 days duration.
• Subacute sinus infection as being over 1 month but less than 3 months.
• Chronic sinus infection as being greater than 3 months duration.
There is no medical consensus on the above time periods.
• Infected sinusitis usually is caused by uncomplicated virus infection. Less frequently,

bacterial growth causes sinus infection and fungal sinus infection is very infrequent. Subacute
and chronic forms of sinus infection usually are the result of incomplete treatment of an acute
sinus infection.
• Noninfectious sinusitis is caused by irritants and allergic conditions and follows the same
general time line for acute, subacute and chronic as infectious sinusitis.
What are the signs and symptoms of sinus infection?

Commonly the symptoms of sinus infection are headache, facial tenderness, pressure or pain, and fever.
However, as few as 25% of patients may have fever associated with acute sinus infection. Other common
symptoms include:
• cloudy, discolored nasal drainage,
• a feeling of nasal stuffiness,
• sore throat, and
• cough.
Some people notice an increased sensitivity or headache when they lean forward because of the additional
pressure placed on the sinuses. Others may experience tooth or ear pain, fatigue, or bad breath. In noninfectious
sinusitis, other associated allergy symptoms of itching eyes and sneezing may be common, but may include some
of the symptoms listed above for infectious sinusitis. Nasal drainage is usually clear or whitish-colored in people
with noninfectious sinusitis.
How is sinus infection diagnosed?

Sinus infection is most often diagnosed based on a history and examination made by a doctor. Because plain X-
ray studies of the sinuses may be misleading and procedures such as CT and MRI scans, which are much more
sensitive in their ability to diagnose sinus infection, are so expensive and not available in most doctors offices,
most cases of sinus infection are initially diagnosed and treated based on clinical findings on examination. These
physical findings may include:
• redness and swelling of the nasal passages,
• purulent (pus like) drainage from the nasal passages (the symptom most likely to clinically
diagnose a sinus infection),
• tenderness to percussion (tapping) over the cheeks or forehead region of the sinuses, and
• swelling about the eyes and cheeks.
Occasionally, nasal secretions are examined for secreted cells that may help differentiate between infectious and
allergic sinusitis. Infectious sinusitis may show specialized cells of infection (polymorphonuclear cells) while
allergic sinusitis may show specialized cells of allergy (eosinophils). Physicians prescribe antibiotics if bacterial
infection is suspected. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections; many physicians then treat the
symptoms.
If sinus infection fails to respond to the initial treatment prescribed, then more in-depth studies such as CT or MRI
scans may be performed. Ultrasound has been used to diagnose sinus infections in pregnant women, but is not
as accurate as CT or MRI. Rhinoscopy, a procedure for directly looking in the back of the nasal passages with a
small flexible fiber optic tube, may be used to directly look at the sinus openings (ostea) and check for obstruction
of these openings by either swelling or growths.
It may sometimes be necessary to perform a needle aspiration (needle puncture) of a sinus to get infected
material to culture to determine what pathogen is actually causing the sinus infection. Cultures of the nasal
passages are rarely helpful in determining what bacteria or fungus is causing a sinus infection since the nasal
passages are often colonized by non-infecting bacteria. The needle puncture procedure is usually done by an
otolaryngologist when treatments have failed to alleviate the disease. The procedure is uncomfortable and
requires local anesthesia; some patients require general anesthesia. The sinus is aspirated, the contents sent for
culture and staining, and the sinus may be flushed with a saline solution. This is technically the most accurate
way to diagnose infectious sinusitis.
In addition, both rigid and flexible endoscopy has been used to obtain diagnostic material from sinuses.
Unfortunately, these procedures are also uncomfortable and need to be done by an otolaryngologist who may
need to sedate the patient. Some investigators suggest that endoscopy specimens are comparable to those
obtained by needle puncture.
How is sinus infection treated?

For sinusitis caused by virus infection, no antibiotic treatment is required. Frequently recommended treatments
include pain and fever medications (such as acetaminophen [Tylenol]), decongestants and mucolytics.
Bacterial infection of the sinuses is suspected when facial pain, nasal discharge resembling pus, and symptoms
persist for longer than a week and are not responding to OTC nasal medications. Acute sinus infection from
bacteria is usually treated with antibiotic therapy aimed at treating the most common bacteria known to cause
sinus infection, since it is unusual to be able to get a reliable culture without aspirating the sinuses.
The five most common bacteria causing sinus infections are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus
influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The antibiotics that are
effective treatment for sinus infection must be able to kill these bacterial types. Although amoxicillin (Amoxil) is an
acceptable first antibiotic for an uncomplicated acute sinus infection, many physicians choose amoxicillin-
clavulanate (Augmentin) as the first-line drug for treatment of a suspected bacterial sinus infection because it is
usually effective against most of the species and strains of bacteria that cause the disease.
In the penicillin allergic individual, cefaclor (Ceclor), loracarbef (Lorabid), clarithromycin (Biaxin), azithromycin
(Zithromax), sulfamethoxazole (Gantanol), trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra) and other antibiotics may be used as
first choices. If a patient is not improving after five days of treatment with amoxicillin, the patient may be switched
to one of the above drugs or amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin. Generally, an effective antibiotic needs to be
continued for a minimum of 10-14 days. It is however not unusual to need to treat sinus infection for 14-21 days.
Taking decongestants (pseudoephedrine) and mucolytics (guaifenesin) orally may be helpful in assisting drainage
of sinus infection.
The treatment of chronic forms of sinus infection requires longer courses of medications, such as Augmentin, and
may require a sinus drainage procedure. This drainage typically requires a surgical operation to open the blocked
sinus under general anesthesia. In general, antihistamines should be avoided unless it is felt that the sinusitis
sinus infection is due to allergy, such as from pollens, dander, or other environmental causes.
It is likely that the use of a topical nasal steroid spray will help reduce swelling in the allergic individual without the
drying that is caused by using antihistamines although both are occasionally used.
In many people, allergic sinusitis develops first, and later, bacterial infection occurs. For these individuals, early
treatment of allergic sinusitis may prevent development of secondary bacterial sinusitis.
Are there home remedies for a sinus infection?

Sinus infections caused by viruses can use home (over-the-counter) treatments such as pain and fever
medications (acetaminophen [Tylenol]), decongestants and mucolytics. In addition, some health care providers
suggest that nasal irrigation or a sinus rinse solution will help relieve symptoms of sinus infections, even chronic
sinusitis symptoms. This irrigation is accomplished with a "Neti-Pot" or a sinus rinse kit (sometimes termed a
nasal bidet). The last reference of this article shows a video of a sinus rinse procedure.
Bacterial and fungal sinus infections usually require antibiotic therapy so home treatments without them are often
not successful. However, some authors suggest home treatments may reduce symptoms after medical therapy
has begun; some health care practitioners recommend nasal irrigation after sinus surgery.
What are complications of sinus infection?

While serious complications do not occur frequently, it is possible for sinus infection to cause a direct extension of
infection into the brain through a sinus wall, creating a life-threatening emergency (for example, meningitis or
brain abscess). In addition, other adjacent structures can become infected and develop problems, such as
osteomyelitis of bones in the skull and infection around the eye (orbital cellulitis).
Can sinus infection be prevented?

Currently, there are no vaccines designed specifically against infectious sinusitis. However, there are vaccines
against viruses (influenza) and bacteria (pneumococci) that may cause some infectious sinusitis. Vaccination
against pathogens known to cause infectious sinusitis may indirectly reduce or prevent the chance of getting the
disease but there are no specific studies to support this assumption.
If a person is prone to recurrent bouts of "yearly sinus infection" it may be important to consider allergy testing to
see if this is the underlying cause of the recurring problem. Treatment of the allergy may prevent secondary
bacterial sinus infections. In addition, sinus infections may be due to other problems such as nasal polyps, tumors
or diseases that obstruct normal mucus flow. Treatment of these underlying causes may prevent recurrent sinus
infections.
Sinus Infection At A Glance

• Sinus infection is a form of inflammation of air cavities (sinusitis) caused by infection.
• Sinusitis can be caused from allergies, irritants, or infection within the sinuses.
• Sinus infection can cause pain in the face, teeth, or head.
• Sinus infection is usually caused by an uncomplicated virus infection.

• Bacterial infection of the sinuses is suspected when facial pain, pus-like nasal discharge, and
symptoms that persist for longer than a week and are not responding to over-the-counter
nasal medications.
• Bacterial sinusitis is usually treated with antibiotic therapy.
• Early treatment of allergic sinusitis may prevent secondary bacterial sinus infections.
REFERENCES:
Centers for Disease Control. "Sinus Conditions."

<http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/sinuses.htm>
Centers for Disease Control. "Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)."

<http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/antibiotic-use/URI/sinus-infection.html>
eMedicine.com. "Sinusitis, Acute, Medical Treatment."

<http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/861646-overview>
eMedicine.com. "Sinusitis."
<http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/764534-overview>
NeilMed Pharmaceuticals, Inc. NeilMed Sinusrinse Video.

<http://www.neilmed.com/usa/sinusrinse_video.php>
Swimmer's Ear Infection (External Otitis)

• What is "swimmer's ear" infection or acute external otitis?

• What are symptoms of swimmer's ear?
• What is chronic swimmer's ear?
• What is the treatment for swimmer's ear?
• How can swimmer's ear be prevented?
• Why do ears itch?
• What should I do if I get a foreign object or insect in my ear?
• Swimmer's Ear At A Glance
What is "swimmer's ear" or acute external otitis?

External otitis or "swimmer's ear" is an infection of the skin covering the outer ear and ear canal. Acute external
otitis is commonly a bacterial infection caused by streptococcus, staphylococcus, or pseudomonas types of
bacteria. The swimmer's ear infection is usually caused by excessive water exposure. When water collects in the
ear canal (frequently trapped by wax), the skin will become soggy and serve as an inviting culture media for
bacteria. Cuts or abrasions in the lining of the ear canal (for example, from cotton swab injury) can also
predispose to bacterial infection of the ear canal.
What are the symptoms of swimmer's ear?

The first symptom of infection is that the ear will feel full, and it may itch. Next, the ear canal will swell and ear
drainage will follow. At this stage the ear will be very painful, especially with movement of the outside portion of
the ear. The ear canal can swell shut, and the side of the face can become swollen. Finally, the glands of the
neck may enlarge, making it difficult or painful to open the jaw. People with swimmer's ear may experience a
decreased capacity for hearing in the affected ear.
What is chronic swimmer's ear?

Chronic (long-term) swimmer's ear can be caused by a bacterial infection, a skin condition (eczema or
seborrhea), fungus (Aspergillosis), chronic irritation (such as from the use of hearing aids, insertion of cotton
swabs, etc), allergy, chronic drainage from middle ear disease, tumors (rare), or it may simply follow from a
nervous habit of frequently scratching the ear. In some patients, more than one factor may be involved. For
example, a patient with eczema may subsequently develop black ear drainage. This would be suggestive of an
accompanying fungal infection.
The standard treatments and preventative measures, as noted below, are often all that is needed to treat even a
case of chronic otitis externa. However, in people with diabetes or those with suppressed immune systems,
chronic swimmer's ear can become a serious disease (malignant external otitis). Malignant external otitis is a
misnomer because it is not a tumor or a cancer, but rather an aggressive bacterial (typically Pseudomonas)
infection of the base of the skull.
What is the treatment of swimmer's ear?

Regardless of the cause, moisture and irritation will prolong the course of the problem. For this reason, the ear
should be kept dry. While showering or swimming use an ear plug (one that is designed to keep water out), or use
cotton with Vaseline on the outside.
Scratching the inside of the ear or using cotton swabs should be avoided. This will only aggravate the irritated
skin, and in most situations will make the condition worse. In fact, scratching the inside of the ear will just make
the ear itch more, and any medications prescribed will be ineffective. A hearing aid should be left out as much as
possible until swelling and discharge stops.
The most common treatment consists of ear drops containing antibiotics or antibiotics with corticosteroids to
reduce inflammation. Oral antibiotics may also be required in some cases. These should be used as directed. In
some situations, a "wick" will need to be placed in the ear canal to stent it open and serve as a conduit for the ear
drops. Periodic, and sometimes frequent, suctioning of the ear canal helps to keep it open, remove debris, and
decrease bacterial counts.
How can swimmer's ear be prevented?

1. Decrease exposure to water. If you are prone to infections it is advisable that you use an ear
plug when you bathe or swim. Swimmer's ear drops or alcohol drops (Swim-EAR®) used in
the ear after water exposure followed by drying the ear with a hair dryer held at arms length
will often help keep the ear free of moisture
2. Do not insert instruments, scratch, or use cotton swabs in the ears.
3. Try to keep the ear free of wax. This may require visits to the doctor to have your ears
cleaned.
4. If you already have an ear infection, or if you have a hole in your eardrum, or if you have had
ear surgery or ear tubes, first consult your doctor prior to swimming and before you use
any type of ear drop.
5. A preventative ear drop solution can be cheaply and easily made by mixing equal parts of
rubbing alcohol and white vinegar (50:50 mixture). This solution will increase the rate of
evaporation of water in the ear canal and has antibacterial properties. Using this solution to
rinse the ear before and after water exposure can serve as a protective measure against
infection.
6. Mineral oil ear drops can be used to protect the ear from water when a dry crusty skin
condition exists.
Why do ears itch?

Itchy ears can drive a person crazy. It can be the first sign of an infection, but if the problem is chronic, it is more
likely caused by a chronic dermatitis of the ear canal. Seborrheic dermatitis and eczema can both affect the ear
canal. There is really no cure for this problem, but it can be made tolerable with the use of steroid drops and
creams. People with these problems are more prone to acute infections as well. Use of ear plugs, alcohol drops,
and non-instrumentation of the ear is the best prevention for infection. Other treatments for allergies may also
help itchy ears.
What should I do if I get a foreign object or insect in my ear?

Foreign objects are frequently placed in the ear by young children or occur accidentally while trying to clean or
scratch the ear. Frequently there is an accompanying external ear infection. Removal of any object from the ear
can be very difficult, and should only be attempted by a physician skilled in the techniques of safe removal.
Usually this can be done in the office, but sometimes general anesthesia must be used in cases where the object
is lodged too deeply in the ear or if the patient is uncooperative. It is important to remember that the most
common reason an ear is injured from a foreign object is because of inadvertent damage occurring during
removal of the object.
Insects or bugs may also become trapped in the ear. Small gnats may become caught in the ear wax and cannot
fly out. They can often be washed out with warm water. Larger insects or bugs may not be able to turn around in
the narrow canal. If the insect or bug is still alive, first kill it by filling the ear with mineral oil. This will suffocate the
insect, then see your doctor to have it removed. For more, please read the Objects or Insects in Ear article.
Swimmer's Ear At A Glance

• Swimmer's Ear, or external otitis, is an infection of the outer ear canal skin and can occur in
acute and chronic forms.
• Excessive water exposure and frequent instrumentation (usually cotton swabs) of the ear
canal are important causative factors.
• Itchy ears, a feeling of fullness, swelling, drainage, and pain are early symptoms.
• Antibiotic ear drops and avoidance of water are frequently necessary for treatment.
• Proper ear care can avoid most infections.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

• What causes people to grind their teeth?
• What are bruxism symptoms and signs?
• Why is teeth grinding harmful?
• What is the treatment for bruxism?
• Do children grind their teeth?
Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time, medically called bruxism. Occasional teeth
grinding, medically called bruxism, does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular
basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise.
Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, it often occurs during sleep and is more likely
caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth.
How Do I Find Out if I Grind My Teeth?

Because grinding often occurs during sleep, most people are unaware that they grind their teeth. However, a dull,
constant headache or sore jaw is a telltale symptom of bruxism. Many times people learn that they grind their
teeth by their loved one who hears the grinding at night.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. He or she can examine your mouth and jaw for
signs of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and abnormalities in your teeth.
Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?

In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in a fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic grinding
may wear their teeth down to stumps. When these events happen, bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, partial
dentures, and even complete dentures may be needed.
Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in tooth loss, it can also affect your jaws, result in hearing
loss, cause or worsen TMD/TMJ, and even change the appearance of your face.
What Can I Do to Stop Grinding My Teeth?

Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep.
If stress is causing you to grind your teeth, ask your doctor or dentist about options to reduce your stress.
Attending stress counseling, starting an exercise program, seeing a physical therapist or obtaining a prescription
for muscle relaxants are among some of the options that may be offered.
Other tips to help you stop teeth grinding include:
• Avoid or cut back on foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as colas, chocolate, and
coffee.
• Avoid alcohol. Grinding tends to intensify after alcohol consumption.
• Do not chew on pencils or pens or anything that is not food. Avoid chewing gum as it allows
your jaw muscles to get more used to clenching and makes you more likely to grind your
teeth.
• Train yourself not to clench or grind your teeth. If you notice that you clench or grind during the
day, position the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This practice trains your jaw muscles
to relax.
• Relax your jaw muscles at night by holding a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of
your earlobe.
Do Children Grind Their Teeth?
The problem of teeth grinding is not limited to adults. Approximately 15% to 33% of children grind their
teeth. Children who grind their teeth tend to do so at two peak times -- when their baby teeth emerge
and when their permanent teeth come in. Most children lose the teeth grinding habit after these two
sets of teeth have come in more fully.
Most commonly, children grind their teeth during sleep rather than during waking hours. No one knows exactly
why children grind their teeth but considerations include improperly aligned teeth or irregular contact between
upper and lower teeth, illnesses and other medical conditions (such as nutritional deficiencies, pinworm, allergies,
endocrine disorders) and psychological factors including anxiety and stress.
Grinding of the baby teeth rarely results in problems. However, teeth grinding can cause jaw pain, headaches,
wear on the teeth and TMD. Consult your dentist if your child's teeth look worn or if your child complains of tooth
sensitivity or pain.
Specific tips to help a child stop grinding his or her teeth include:
• Decrease your child's stress, especially just before bed.
• Try massage and stretching exercises to relax the muscles.
• Make sure your child's diet includes plenty of water dehydration may be linked to teeth
grinding.
• Ask your dentist to monitor your child's teeth if he or she is a grinder.
No intervention is usually required with preschool-age children. However, older children may need temporary
crowns or other methods, such as a night guard, to prevent the grinding.
Reviewed by Darren R. Williams, DDS, on March 15, 2009
© WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
Teething
Medical Author: John Mersch, MD, FAAP
• What is teething?
• When do babies start teething?
• What are the signs and symptoms of teething?
• What is the order of tooth eruption in infants?
• How long does teething last?
• When should I call the pediatrician?
• What medications are used to treat teething pain?
• What home remedies provide relief for teething pain?
• How do I care for my baby's new teeth?
• When should my child see the dentist?
• Teething At A Glance
What is teething?
Teething is the process by which an infant's teeth erupt, or break through, the gums. Teething is also referred to
as "cutting" of the teeth. Teething is medically termed odontiasis.
When do babies start teething?

The onset of teething symptoms typically precedes the eruption of a tooth by several days. While a baby's first
tooth can present between 4 and 10 months of age, the first tooth usually erupts at approximately 6 months of
age. Some dentists have noted a family pattern of "early," "average," or "late" teethers.
A relatively rare condition, "natal" teeth, describes the presence of a tooth on the day of birth. The incidence of
such an event is one per 2,000-3,000 live births. Usually, this single and often somewhat malformed tooth is a
unique event in an otherwise normal child. Rarely, the presence of a natal tooth is just one of several unusual
physical findings which make up a syndrome. If the possibility of a syndrome exists, consultation with a pediatric
dentist and/or geneticist can be helpful. The natal tooth is often loose and is commonly removed prior to the
newborn's hospital discharge to lessen the risk of aspiration into the lungs.
What are the signs and symptoms of teething?

Teething is generally associated with gum and jaw discomfort as the infant's tooth prepares to erupt through the
gum surface. As the tooth moves beneath the surface of the gum tissue, the area may appear slightly red or
swollen. Sometimes a fluid-filled area similar to a "blood blister" may be seen over the erupting tooth. Some teeth
may be more sensitive than others when they erupt. The larger molars may cause more discomfort due to their
larger surface area that can't "slice" through the gum tissue as an erupting incisor is capable of doing. With the
exception of the eruption of the third molars (wisdom teeth), eruption of permanent teeth rarely cause the
discomfort associated with eruption of "baby" (primary or deciduous) teeth.
Teething may cause the following symptoms:
• increased drooling,
• restless or decreased sleeping due to gum discomfort,
• refusal of food due to soreness of the gum region,
• fussiness that comes and goes,

• bringing hands to the mouth,
• mild rash around the mouth due to skin irritation secondary to excessive drooling, and
• rubbing the cheek or ear region as a consequence of referred pain during the eruption of the
molars.
Importantly, teething is not associated with the following symptoms:
• fever (especially over 101 F),
• diarrhea, runny nose and cough,
• prolonged fussiness, or
• rashes over the body.
What is the order of tooth eruption in infants?

The general order of eruption of primary teeth is:
Central incisors: 6-12 months of age

Lateral incisors: 9-16 months of age
Canine teeth: 16-23 months of age
First molars: 13-19 months of age
Second molars: 22-24 months of age
Between 6 to 12 years of age, the roots of these 20 "baby" teeth degenerate, allowing their replacement with 32
permanent "adult" teeth. The third molars ("wisdom teeth") have no preceding "baby" version and generally erupt
in mid to late adolescence. Because of their tendency to promote crowding and crooked orientation, they are
often removed.
How long does teething last?

Children will commonly have variable discomfort during the few days before eruption through the gum line. Some
babies are bothered more than others during the migration through the tissues deep to the gum line. Because of
their shape, molars are more likely to be associated with teething discomfort.
When should I call the pediatrician?

Because teething is so common and other symptoms such as fever, fussiness, and diarrhea are also common,
both conditions may often occur at the same time. Other illnesses or disorders (such as viral infections) are much
more likely to be causing fever, fussiness, and/or nasal congestion with cough and diarrhea. It is important to
contact your doctor if these or other symptoms seem concerning to you. Do not assume that they are just from
teething.
What medications are used to treat teething pain?

Some controversy surrounds the use of pain medicines.
Medicines that can be placed on the gums
Certain over-the-counter medicines can be placed directly on the gums to help relieve pain. They contain
medications that temporarily numb the gum tissue. They may help for brief periods of time but have a taste and
sensation that many children do not like. It is important not to let the medicine numb the throat because that may
interfere with the normal gag reflex and may make it possible for food to enter the lungs. For this reason, many
doctors/dentists do not recommend the use of these medications. While some parents endorse topical medicines,
studies have not consistently shown a benefit. Orajel, Hyland's Teething Tablets and Humphries tablets are
examples over-the-counter preparations. Alcohol should never be used to numb the gums.
Medicines that are taken by mouth to help reduce the pain
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can also help with pain. Ibuprofen should not be
administered to infants younger than 6 months of age. Medications should be used only for the few times when
other home-care methods do not help. Caution should be taken not to overmedicate for teething. The medicine
may mask significant symptoms that could be important to know about. Do not give your child products containing
aspirin. No prescription drugs are routinely given for teething.
What home remedies provide relief for teething pain?

Infant gums often feel better when gentle pressure is placed on the gums. For this reason, many doctors
recommend gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger or having the child bite down on a clean washcloth. If the
pain seems to be causing feeding problems, sometimes a different shaped nipple or use of a cup may reduce
discomfort and improve feeding. Cold objects many help reduce inflammation as well. Veteran parents have
discovered the usefulness of frozen washcloths and ice cubes for this purpose. Be careful to avoid having
prolonged contact of very cold objects on the gums. Also, never put anything in a child's mouth that might enable
the child to choke.
How do I care for my baby's new teeth?

Oral hygiene may be started even before eruption of the first tooth. Twice a day cleaning of the gums using the
washrag used for cleaning the face and hands after eating is effective and simple. Fluoride has been shown to be
extremely effective in reducing the development and severity of cavities. Since fluoride amounts vary by water
source, check with your child's pediatrician or dentist regarding any supplementation that may be necessary.
Fluoride recommendations will be based upon fluoride concentration in water consumed and age of your child. An
excess of fluoride may cause fluorosis -- permanent staining of the teeth. Children's teeth seem most vulnerable
during the first three years of life. For this reason, fluoridated toothpaste is rarely necessary for children less than
3 years of age. Maternal fluoride supplementation during pregnancy has not been shown to benefit fetal dental
integrity or protect the child's baby or permanent teeth from cavity formation.
Infants and children should never take a bottle to their crib or bed. Formula, breast milk, cow's milk, soymilk, and
juice all can be associated with cavity formation. Ingestion of sticky fruit (such as raisins) or other foods heavily
laden with sugar (such as candy) is also associated with an increase in cavity formation.
When should my child see the dentist?

The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend the first dental visit be at
1 year of age. If a delayed schedule is chosen, the latest time for a first dental visit is 3 years of age. Trauma, oral
malformations, staining of the teeth, dental pain, and unusual changes of the teeth or gums would warrant a
dental visit when first noted by the parent.
Teething At A Glance
• Teething is the process by which a baby's teeth erupt, or break through, the gums. Teething
generally occurs between 6 to 24 months of age.
• Symptoms of teething include irritability, tender and swollen gums, and the infant wanting to
place objects or fingers into the mouth in an attempt to reduce discomfort. Fever, cough,
diarrhea, and cold symptoms are not found when a child is teething.
• Topical medicines and over-the-counter pain relievers generally provide relief of symptoms.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ Disorder)

Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
Medical Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
• What is the temporomandibular joint?

• What are TMJ disorders, and how are TMJ disorders caused?
• What are common TMJ symptoms?
• How are patients evaluated and diagnosed when TMJ problems are suspected?
• What is the treatment for TMJ disorders?
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) - Treatments
• Patient Discussions: Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (Tmj) - Symptoms Experienced
What is the temporomandibular joint?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the area directly in front of the ear on either side of the head where the
upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) meet. Within the TMJ, there are moving parts that allow the upper
jaw to close on the lower jaw. This joint is a typical sliding "ball and socket" that has a disc sandwiched between
it. The TMJ is used throughout the day to move the jaw, especially in biting and chewing, talking, and yawning. It
is one of the most frequently used joints of the body.
The temporomandibular joints are complex and are composed of muscles, tendons, and bones. Each component
contributes to the smooth operation of the TMJ. When the muscles are relaxed and balanced and both jaw joints
open and close comfortably, we are able to talk, chew, or yawn without pain.
We can locate the TMJ by putting a finger on the triangular structure in front of the ear. The finger is moved just
slightly forward and pressed firmly while opening the jaw. The motion felt is from the TMJ. We can also feel the
joint motion if we put a little finger against the inside front part of the ear canal. These maneuvers can cause
considerable discomfort to a person who is experiencing TMJ difficulty, and doctors use them for making the
diagnosis.
What are TMJ disorders, and how are TMJ disorders caused?
TMJ disorders are a group of complex problems of the jaw joint. TMJ disorders are also sometimes referred to as
myofacial pain dysfunction and Costen's syndrome. Because muscles and joints work together, a problem with
either one can lead to stiffness, headaches, ear pain, bite problems (malocclusion), clicking sounds, or locked
jaws. The following are behaviors or conditions that can lead to TMJ disorders.
1. Teeth grinding and teeth clenching (bruxism) increase the wear on the cartilage lining of the
TMJ. Those who grind or clench their teeth may be unaware of this behavior unless they are
told by someone observing this pattern while sleeping or by a dental professional noticing
telltale signs of wear and tear on the teeth. Many patients awaken in the morning with jaw or
ear pain.
2. Habitual gum chewing or fingernail biting

3. Dental problems and misalignment of the teeth (malocclusion). Patients may complain that it is
difficult to find a comfortable bite or that the way their teeth fit together has changed. Chewing
on only one side of the jaw can lead to or be a result of TMJ problems.
4. Trauma to the jaws: Previous fractures in the jaw or facial bones can lead to TMJ disorders.
5. Stress frequently leads to unreleased nervous energy. It is very common for people under
stress to release this nervous energy by either consciously or unconsciously grinding and
clenching their teeth.
6. Occupational tasks such as holding the telephone between the head and shoulder may
contribute to TMJ disorders.
What are common TMJ symptoms?

TMJ pain disorders usually occur because of unbalanced activity, spasm, or overuse of the jaw muscles.
Symptoms tend to be chronic, and treatment is aimed at eliminating the precipitating factors. Many symptoms
may not appear related to the TMJ itself. The following are common symptoms.
Headache: Approximately 80% of patients with a TMJ disorder complain of headache, and 40% report facial pain.
Pain is often made worse while opening and closing the jaw. Exposure to cold weather or air-conditioned air may
increase muscle contraction and facial pain.
Ear pain: About 50% of patients with a TMJ disorder notice ear pain and do not have signs of ear infection. The
ear pain is usually described as being in front of or below the ear. Often, patients are treated multiple times for a
presumed ear infection, which can often be distinguished from TMJ disorder by an associated hearing loss or ear
drainage (which would be expected if there really was an ear infection). Because ear pain occurs so commonly,
ear specialists are frequently called on to make the diagnosis of a TMJ disorder.
Sounds: Grinding, crunching, or popping sounds, medically termed crepitus, are common for patients with a TMJ
disorder. These sounds may or may not be accompanied by increased pain.
Dizziness: Of patients with a TMJ disorder, 40% report a vague sense of dizziness or imbalance (usually not a
spinning type vertigo). The cause of this type of dizziness is not well understood.
Fullness of the ear: About 33% of patients with a TMJ disorder describe muffled, clogged, or full ears. They may
notice ear fullness and pain during airplane takeoffs and landings. These symptoms are usually caused by
eustachian-tube dysfunction, the structure responsible for the regulation of pressure in the middle ear. It is
thought that patients with TMJ disorders have hyperactivity (spasms) of the muscles responsible for regulating the
opening and closing of the eustachian tube.
Ringing in the ear (tinnitus): For unknown reasons, 33% of patients with a TMJ disorder experience noise or
ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Of those patients, half will have resolution of their tinnitus after successful treatment
of their TMJ disorder.
How are patients evaluated and diagnosed when TMJ problems

are suspected?
A complete dental and medical evaluation is often necessary and recommended to evaluate patients with
suspected TMJ disorders. One or more of the following diagnostic clues or procedures may be used to establish
the diagnosis. Damaged jaw joints are suspected when there are popping, clicking, and grating sounds
associated with movement of the jaw. Chewing may become painful, and the jaw may lock or not open widely.
The teeth may be worn smooth, as well as show a loss of the normal bumps and ridges on the tooth surface. Ear
symptoms are very common. Infection of the ear, sinuses, and teeth can be discovered by medical and dental
examination. Dental X-rays and computerized tomography (CT) scanning help to define the bony detail of the
joint, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to analyze soft tissues.
What is the treatment for TMJ disorders?

The mainstay of treatment for acute TMJ pain is heat and ice, soft diet, and anti-inflammatory medications.
1. Jaw rest: It can be beneficial to keep the teeth apart as much as possible. It is also important to recognize
when tooth grinding is occurring and devise methods to cease this activity. Patients are advised to avoid chewing
gum or eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods such as raw vegetables, candy, or nuts. Foods that require opening
the mouth widely, such as a big hamburger, are also not recommended.
2. Heat and ice therapy: These assist in reducing muscle tension and spasm. However, immediately after an
injury to the TMJ, treatment with cold applications is best. Cold packs can be helpful for relieving pain.
3. Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil and others), naproxen (Aleve
and others), or steroids can help control inflammation. Muscle relaxants, such as diazepam (Valium), aid in
decreasing muscle spasms. In certain situations, local injection of cortisone preparations (methylprednisolone
[Depo-Medrol], triamcinolone [Kenalog], Celestone) into the TMJ may be helpful.
4. Physical therapy: Passively opening and closing the jaw, massage, and electrical stimulation help to decrease
pain and increase the range of motion and strength of the joint.
5. Stress management: Stress support groups, psychological counseling, and medications can also assist in
reducing muscle tension. Biofeedback helps people recognize times of increased muscle activity and spasm and
provides methods to help control them.
6. Occlusal therapy: A custom-made acrylic appliance which fits over the teeth is commonly prescribed for night
but may be required throughout the day. It acts to balance the bite and reduce or eliminate teeth grinding or
clenching (bruxism).
7. Correction of bite abnormalities: Corrective dental therapy, such as orthodontics, may be required to correct
an abnormal bite. Dental restorations assist in creating a more stable bite. Adjustments of bridges or crowns act
to ensure proper alignment of the teeth.
8. Surgery: Surgery is indicated in those situations in which medical therapy has failed. It is done as a last resort.
TMJ arthroscopy, ligament tightening, joint restructuring, and joint replacement are considered in the most severe
cases of joint damage or deterioration.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders At A Glance

• The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the site where the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw
(mandible) meet.
• TMJ disorders are a group of complex problems with many possible causes.
• Symptoms of TMJ disorders include headache, ear pain, dizziness, and fullness or ringing in
the ear.
• There are many treatment options for TMJ disorders.
REFERENCES:
Klippel, John H., et al., eds. Primer on the Rheumatic Diseases. New York: Springer and Arthritis
Foundation, 2008.
Ruddy, Shaun, et al., eds. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology, 6th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2001.
Toothache
Medical Author: Donna Bautista, DDS
• What is a toothache?
• What are dental causes of toothaches?
• Toothache At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Toothache - Treatments
• Patient Discussions: Toothache - Describe Your Experience
What is a toothache?
"Toothache" usually refers to pain around the teeth or jaws primarily as a result of a dental condition. In most
instances, toothaches are caused by tooth problems, such as a dental cavity, a cracked tooth, an exposed tooth
root, or gum disease. However, disorders of the jaw joint (temporo-mandibular joint) can also cause pain that is
referred to as "toothache." The severity of a toothache can range from chronic and mild to sharp and excruciating.
The pain may be aggravated by chewing or by cold or heat. A thorough oral examination, which includes dental
X-rays, can help determine whether the toothache is coming from a tooth or jaw problem and the cause.
Sometimes, a toothache may be caused by a problem not originating from a tooth or the jaw. Pain around the
teeth and the jaws can be symptoms of diseases of the heart (such as angina or heart attack), ears (such as inner
or external ear infections), and sinuses (air passages of the cheekbones). For example, the pain of angina
(inadequate supply of oxygenated blood to the heart muscle because of narrowing of the arteries to the heart) is
usually located in the chest or the arm. However, in some patients with angina, a toothache or jaw pain is the only
symptom of their heart problem. Infections and diseases of the ears and sinuses can also cause pain around the
teeth and jaws. Therefore, evaluations by both dentists and doctors are sometimes necessary to diagnose
medical illnesses causing "toothache."
What are dental causes of toothaches?

Common dental causes of toothaches include dental cavities, dental abscess, gum disease, irritation of the tooth
root, cracked tooth syndrome, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, impaction, and eruption.
Dental cavities & dental abscess
The most common cause of a toothache is a dental cavity. Dental cavities (caries) are holes in the two outer
layers of a tooth called the enamel and the dentin. The enamel is the outermost white hard surface and the dentin
is the yellow layer just beneath the enamel. Both layers serve to protect the inner living tooth tissue called the
pulp, where blood vessels and nerves reside. Certain bacteria in the mouth convert simple sugars into acid. The
acid softens and (along with saliva) dissolves the enamel and dentin, creating cavities. Small, shallow cavities
may not cause pain and may be unnoticed by the patient. The larger deeper cavities can be painful and collect
food debris. The inner living pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by bacterial toxins or by foods and
liquids that are cold, hot, sour, or sweet, thereby causing toothaches. Severe injury to the pulp can lead to the
death of pulp tissue, resulting in tooth infection (dental abscess). A small swelling or "gum blister" may be present
near the affected tooth as well. Toothaches from these larger cavities are the most common reason for visits to
dentists.
Treatment of a small and shallow cavity usually involves a dental filling. Treatment of a larger cavity involves an
onlay or crown. Treatment for a cavity that has penetrated and injured the pulp or for an infected tooth is either a
root canal procedure or extraction of the affected tooth. The root canal procedure involves removing the dying
pulp tissue (thus avoiding or removing tooth infection) and replacing it with an inert filling material. The procedure
is used in an attempt to save the dying tooth from extraction. Once a root canal procedure is done, the tooth is
more prone to fracture and will oftentimes require a crown to protect it.
Gum disease
The second most common cause of toothache is gum disease (periodontal disease). Gum disease refers to
inflammation of the soft tissue (gingiva) and abnormal loss of bone that surrounds and holds the teeth in place.
Gum disease is caused by toxins secreted by certain bacteria in "plaque" that accumulate over time along and
under the gum line. This plaque is a mixture of food, saliva, and bacteria. An early symptom of gum disease is
gum bleeding without pain. Pain is a symptom of more advanced gum disease as the loss of bone around the
teeth leads to the formation of deep gum pockets. Bacteria in these pockets cause gum infection, swelling, pain,
and further bone destruction. Advanced gum disease can cause loss of otherwise healthy teeth. Gum disease is
complicated by such factors as poor oral hygiene, family history of gum disease, smoking, and family history of
diabetes.
Treatment of gum disease always involves oral hygiene and removal of bacterial plaque and tartar (hardened
plaque). Moderate to advanced gum disease usually requires a thorough cleaning of the teeth and teeth roots
called "scaling and root planing" and "subgingival curettage." Scaling and root planing is the removal of plaque
and tartar from exposed teeth roots while subgingival curettage refers to the removal of the surface of the
inflamed layer of gum tissue. Both of these procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia and may be
accompanied by the use of oral antibiotics to overcome gum infection or abscess. Follow-up treatment, if
necessary, may include various types of gum operations. In advanced gum disease with significant bone
destruction and loosening of teeth, teeth splinting or teeth extractions may be necessary.
Tooth root sensitivities
Toothache can also be caused by exposed tooth roots. Typically, the roots are the lower two-thirds of the teeth
that are normally buried in bone. The bacterial toxins dissolve the bone around the roots and cause the gum and
the bone to recede, exposing the roots. The condition of exposed roots is called "recession." The exposed roots
can become extremely sensitive to cold, hot, and sour foods because they are no longer protected by healthy
gum and bone.
Early stages of root exposure can be treated with topical fluoride gels applied by the dentist or with special
toothpastes (such as Sensodyne or Denquel) which contain fluorides and other minerals. These minerals are
absorbed by the surface layer of the roots to make the roots stronger and less sensitive to the oral environment.
Dentists may also apply "bonding agents" to the exposed roots to seal the sensitive areas. If the root exposure
causes injury and death of the inner living pulp tissue of the tooth, then a root canal procedure or tooth extraction
may be necessary.
Cracked tooth syndrome
"Cracked tooth syndrome" refers to a toothache caused by a broken tooth (tooth fracture) without associated
cavity or advanced gum disease. Biting on the area of tooth fracture can cause severe sharp pains. These
fractures are usually due to chewing or biting hard objects such as hard candies, pencils, nuts, etc. Your dentist
can usually detect the fracture by painting a special dye on the cracked tooth or shining a special light on the
tooth. Treatment usually involves protecting the tooth with a full-coverage crown made of gold and/or porcelain.
However, if placing a crown does not relieve pain symptoms, a root canal procedure may be necessary.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Disorders of the temporomandibular joint(s) can cause pain which usually occurs in or around the ears or lower
jaw. The TMJ hinges the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull and is responsible for the ability to chew or talk. TMJ
disorders can be caused by different types of problems such as injury (such as a blow to the face), arthritis, or jaw
muscle fatigue from habitually clenching or grinding teeth. Habitual clenching or grinding of teeth, a condition
called "bruxism," can cause pain in the joints, jaw muscles, and the teeth involved. Bruxism is often due to life
"stress," family history of bruxism, and poor bite alignment. Sometimes, muscles around the TMJ used for
chewing can go into spasm, causing head and neck pain and difficulty opening the mouth normally. These muscle
spasms are aggravated by chewing or by stress, which cause the patients to clench their teeth and further tighten
these muscles. Temporary TMJ pain can also result from recent dental work or by the trauma of extracting
impacted wisdom teeth.
Treatment of temporo-mandibular joint pain usually involves oral anti-inflammatory over-the counter (OTC) drugs
like ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). Other measures include warm moist compresses to relax the
joint areas, stress reduction, and/or eating soft foods that do not require much chewing. If bruxism is diagnosed
by a dentist, a bite appliance (night guard) may be recommended that is worn during the night to protect the teeth.
However, this bite appliance is used mainly to protect the teeth and may not help with joint pain. For more serious
cases of joint pain, a referral to a TMJ specialist may be necessary to determine further treatment.
Impaction & eruption

Dental pain can come from teeth that are erupting (tooth growing out or "cutting") or are impacted (tooth has failed
to emerge into its proper position and remains under gum and/or bone). When a molar (the large teeth at the back
of the jaw) tooth erupts, the surrounding gum can become inflamed and swollen. Impacted teeth cause pain when
they put pressure onto other teeth or bone and are inflamed and/or infected. Treatment for impacted teeth is
usually pain medication, antibiotics (for infections), and surgical removal. This most commonly occurs with
impacted molar (wisdom) teeth.
Toothache At A Glance
• The most common cause of a toothache is a dental cavity.
• The second most common cause of toothache is gum disease.
• A toothache can be caused by a problem that does not originate from a tooth or the jaw.
REFERENCE:
Davidson, Terence M. "Consultation for Temporal Mandibular Joint Disease (TMJ)." Oct. 10, 2010.
University of California, San Diego.
<http://health.ucsd.edu/specialties/surgery/davidson/consults/tmj.htm>.
Additional resources from WebMD Boots UK on Toothache Treatment
Facial Pain
• Introduction to trigeminal neuralgia
• What is trigeminal neuralgia?
• What is trigeminal neuralgia?
• What causes trigeminal neuralgia?
• What are the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia?
• How is trigeminal neuralgia diagnosed?
• How is trigeminal neuralgia treated?
Introduction to Trigeminal Nerualgia

Pain originating in the face, or elsewhere, may be caused by an injury, an infection in a structure of the face, a
nerve disorder, or it may occur for no known reason.
Some common causes of facial pain include:
• Abscessed tooth (a condition in which a tooth is surrounded by inflammation and pus)

• Sinus infection
• Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)
• Injury to the face
• TMJ disorders (TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, or the jaw joint)
• Trigeminal neuralgia (described below)
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), also called tic douloureux, is a condition that is characterized by intermittent, shooting
pain in the face.
Trigeminal neuralgia affects the trigeminal nerve, one of the largest nerves in the head. The trigeminal nerve
sends impulses of touch, pain, pressure, and temperature to the brain from the face, jaw, gums, forehead, and
around the eyes.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The most frequent cause of trigeminal neuralgia is a blood vessel pressing on the nerve near the brain stem. Over
time, changes in the blood vessels of the brain can result in blood vessels rubbing against the trigeminal nerve
root. The constant rubbing with each heartbeat wears away the insulating membrane of the nerve, resulting in
nerve irritation.
What Are the Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia causes a sudden, severe, electric shock-like, or stabbing pain that lasts several seconds.
The pain can be felt on the face and around the lips, eyes, nose, scalp, and forehead. Symptoms can be brought
on when a person is brushing the teeth, putting on makeup, touching the face, swallowing, or even feeling a slight
breeze.
Trigeminal neuralgia is often considered one of the most painful conditions seen in medicine. Usually, the pain is
felt on one side of the jaw or cheek, but some people experience pain at different times on both sides. The attacks
of pain may be repeated one after the other. They may come and go throughout the day and last for days, weeks,
or months at a time. At times, the attacks can disappear for months or years. The disorder is more common in
women than in men and rarely affects anyone younger than 50.
How Is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to determine whether a tumor or multiple sclerosis is irritating the
trigeminal nerve. Otherwise, no test can determine with certainty the presence of trigeminal neuralgia. Tests can,
however, help rule out other causes of facial disorders. Trigeminal neuralgia usually is diagnosed based on the
patient's description of the symptoms.
How Is Trigeminal Neuralgia Treated?

Trigeminal neuralgia can be treated with antiseizure medications such as Tegretol or Neurontin. The medications
Klonopin and Depakote may also be effective and may be used in combination with other drugs to achieve pain
relief. Some antidepressant drugs also have significant pain relieving effects.
If medications are ineffective or if they produce undesirable side effects, neurosurgical procedures are available to
relieve pressure on the nerve or to reduce nerve sensitivity.
Some patients report having reduced or relieved pain by means of alternative medical therapies such as
acupuncture, chiropractic adjustment, self-hypnosis or meditation.
Reviewed by Ephraim K Brenman, DO on February 10, 2009
© 2009 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
Other Causes of Jaw Pain
• Dislocation
• Infection/Abscess
• Misalignment of Teeth
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Postural Factors (Such as Holding a Telephone Between the Ear and Shoulder)
• Trauma/Bruising
• Tumor
Examples of Medications for Jaw Pain
• acetaminophen, Tylenol and Others

• acetylsalicylic acid, Aspirin, Ecotrin
• ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc.
• naproxen, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn, Aleve
• OTC Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers

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Can an abscessed tooth be prevented?

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Elverne M. Tonn, DDS, on September 17, 2009

© 2009 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

Last Editorial Review: 9/17/2009

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Exercise stress test

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