AlarmClock Headaches

That said, melanoma, its treatment and the emotional toll of all of it is very stressful. TMJ and tension headaches are a very common response by many when dealing with stress. They are exemplified by headaches and jaw pain that build up through the day, due to neck muscle tightening and jaw clenching as the stress builds. TMJ causes pain that radiates to the head and that occurs when the jaw is both opened and clenched (ie – with chewing). Both are ameliorated with relaxation and rest.

Were I in her shoes I would check with the oncologist to make sure they do not think her s/s are treatment/melanoma related. If they do not, I would work on decreasing stress, purposeful relaxation techniques to the jaw and neck area and possibly seek the help of a dentist evaluate possible TMJ. (Sometimes mouth guards can be helpful.)

LIVING with melanoma and its treatments is a very tricky and difficult thing. One shouldn’t overlook important untoward events, as reporting and dealing with them can be life saving. On the other hand, one has to find things to enjoy and focus on that do not include melanoma, so as to diminish stress and provide needed diversion. It’s not easy. Wishing you both my best. Celeste

I do not have melanoma. My husband does. However, I seem to be more scared than he is. I’m embarrassed that I am so scared and try very hard to not cry in front of him or the children every day. I’m quite successful at this, however, I think the tension in my body has caused me to get lockjaw. My jaw locked 2 months ago, and I repeatedly forced it open at great pain. I don’t know whether I should have forced it open as I still cannot chew food properly on that side, and taking a bite out of anything like an apple is out of the question. During the day I have just slight pain as long as I am not chewing anything, however, at night when I lay down, the pain in my jaw becomes quite strong and sometimes unbearable. I am not a doctor so can’t diagnose the cause of my pain, but I am a mother just like your mother is. Could it be that your mother is also trying very hard not to cry in front of you (her child) and in turn that tension and stress could be affecting her jaw and head muscles which in turn are causing the headaches? I don’t know if this post is helpful, but as the similarities and the timings of the pains are similar, I thought it could help as it would mean that the pains are not due to the medicine that she is taking. I visited a cancer support centre, and they are recommending I register for some relaxation/yoga course to relieve the mental anguish.

Do take care of yourself and I truly hope your mother improves.

Affected.