u/Responsible_Fill_934

I'm not going to tell a story about how many doctors I've seen and the inane things I've been told, just going to let my symptoms speak for themselves:

Female, 29, 5'2, 270lbs, no consistent medications, non-smoker.

PMOS, chronic inflammation of my neck and back that is worsened around menstruation, daily pressure headaches for the last six months that do not respond to meds other than ibuprofen, which is now causing rebound headaches. I have tried supplements like magnesium, muscle relaxers, anxiety meds, anticonvulsants, weight loss meds, with no relief. Headaches are not present upon waking, pain/pressure begins about an hour after. It begins in the upper sinus/lower forehead area, then spreads to around my eyes and cheekbones, then throughout my entire head from upper jaw and up. Neurologist has ruled out any tumors based on a routine exam.

Other symptoms I have but have no idea if they could be related:

Tinnitus, jaw clenching/clicking from braces 10 years ago, occasional sour mucus taste when swallowing (like drainage).

Just preemptively, I am aware of my weight issues and how it can affect my body. I have been 250+ for over five years, but the major issues stated in this post have been only in the last six months, so unless you believe you have another answer related to weight that isn't just "lose it," please do not comment on that subject. Yes, I drink enough water. Yes, I eat clean as much as I can.

TIA!

Hi guys. I'd like to know how you knew your symptoms were TMJ (other than the obvious diagnosis from a professional). My symptoms are as follows: persistent daily pressure headaches that localize around my sinuses but also make my upper jaw hurt, jaw tightness (I tend to rest in a clenching state), and a left side clicking between my upper and lower jaw when I open to full capacity. Do these sound familiar to anyone who has TMJ?

The main thing here is the headaches. I've had the clicking since I got braces off over 10 years ago, but the headaches have been daily for the last six months. I've seen and discussed the pain with dentists and neurologists, but they are only interested in managing the symptoms, not fixing the root cause. Kind advice is welcome. Thanks!

Kinda just ranting, but would still appreciate any advice or suggestions.

I'm becoming hopeless when it comes to PCOS related inflammation. Almost 10 doctors have only suggested muscle relaxers or metformin, which I can't take due to unbearable GI effects. I have daily inflammation headaches that, if unmedicated, lead to migraine or unbearable, unlocalized squeezing/pressure pain. The only medication that helps is a minimum of 600mg ibuprofen. And like the muscle relaxers, I do not want to be on symptom-managing medications forever, especially ones that can lead to stomach lining erosion. In the last few weeks, I have developed back pain related to the inflammation. It is mostly localized to the center of my spine, but again, unmedicated, it leads to worse, all-over pain from neck to lower back. It constantly feels like someone is squeezing my spine between their fists. One doctor finally suggested physical therapy, which I hope my insurance will cover enough so I can try it, but I'm also not hopeful on that front. I also cannot afford a glp1, nor will insurance cover it.

Has anyone had similar experiences/pain? What did you do?