Can TMJ Cause Vertigo?

TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles. Some people with TMJ also experience intense dizziness and even vertigo (via Colgate). This is because your jaw joints can touch your inner ears when inflamed due to TMJ. The sensors in your inner ear communicate with your brain regarding the location and movement of your body. As a result, the inflammation messes up the messages your brain sends to your body about where it is in space, which affects your feeling of balance. You can feel lightheaded or lose your equilibrium as a result. Your vertigo might be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Vertigo and other symptoms of TMJ can be treated with a number of different methods. These include physical therapy, electrical stimulation, heat/cold therapy, and massage (via Mayo Clinic). In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. However, most people with TMJ can find relief with conservative treatment methods. If you think you may have TMJ, be sure to see your dentist or doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat the condition.

Vertigo is the sensation of spinning or feeling like your surroundings are moving when they're not (via WebMD). In addition to the sensation of spinning, vertigo can also cause nausea and vomiting, ringing in the ears, headaches, and trouble focusing. If you experience vertigo, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Vertigo can be triggered by a number of things, including head injuries, migraines, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and even allergies. While vertigo can be caused by things like dehydration or low blood sugar, it can also be a sign of something more serious, like Meniere's disease or vestibular neuritis.

Treating vertigo often comes down to treating the underlying cause (via Cleveland Clinic). For example, if vertigo is caused by an inner ear infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics. If it's caused by Meniere's disease, you may be prescribed diuretics to reduce fluid buildup in the inner ear. If migraines are the cause, you may be prescribed medications to prevent or treat them. In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help retrain your brain and balance system. Vertigo can be a frustrating condition, but fortunately, there are treatments available to help lessen the symptoms and get you back to your normal self.