What Are the Causes of Headaches & Tongue Spasms?

Headaches and tongue spasms can seriously affect your day.

Headaches and tongue spasms can seriously affect those that suffer them, causing pain and discomfort and making it difficult to perform every day tasks. There are many causes of headaches and tongue spasms, and some of these are connected to one another. Some headaches and tongue spasms can be prevented, while some cannot.

Tongue Spasm

Tongue spasms may be oromandibular dystonia (OMD). OMD makes the tongue move in all directions and may make it difficult or even impossible to swallow. OMD may be caused by cerebral palsy, encephalitis (or swelling of the brain), side effects of some drugs, hepatic encephalopathy (a liver disease) and Hunter's chorea (a generative nerve disorder).

Muscle Cramps

Tongue spasms may also be caused by cramps. The tongue is a large muscle, and is so subject to cramping, which refers to an involuntary contraction of a muscle. If the tongue is subject to cramps, it may feel constricted and bulging. Cramps have many causes, including alcohol use, dehydration, an under-active thyroid, kidney failure and may also be a side effect caused by certain drugs.

Tension Headache

There are two primary forms of headache: tension and migraine. Tension headaches spread across the whole forehead and are often caused by tight, contracted muscles in the jaw and neck. This means that a headache could be caused by the strain on the jaw caused by tongue spasms. Tension headaches can also be a symptom of other problems, such as stress, depression and anxiety. Lack of sleep, hunger, alcohol and drug use, caffeine withdrawal and sweets such as chocolate can all cause tension headaches.

Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches usually occur with other symptoms such as blurry vision. They are caused by abnormal brain activity that is caused by such factors as stress, lack of sleep, loud noises and diet. Migraines are relatively common and usually strike people between the ages of 10 and 46 the most.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches usually attack one side of the head, and may also be accompanied by a blocked nose. Cluster headaches can last anywhere from a week to a year. Cluster headaches may be caused by a sudden release of histamines or serotonin in the body. This release may be triggered by high altitudes, bright light and heat.

Considerations

You should talk to your doctor if you experience a headache or tongue spasms for more than a few days.

References

• Dystonia Info: Spasms of the Mouth, Tongue and Pharynx
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Movement - Uncontrolled or Slow
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Muscle Cramps
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Headache
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Migraine