The temples are the region aligned with the eyes on the sides of the head. Headaches in this area are relatively common and may be caused by a variety of conditions including disorders of the blood vessels, joints and underlying brain tissue in this region. A careful medical history including the onset and features of the headaches can help direct a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Temporal Arteritis
Temporal arteritis is an inflammatory condition of the blood vessels, most commonly affecting those of the neck and head. The temporal artery, which supplies the temple area, is frequently involved. According to The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals, unilateral, throbbing headache is the most common symptom of temporal arteritis. The area of the scalp over the temporal artery may be tender to the touch. Other symptoms may include low-grade fever and sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and jaw pain. Importantly, visual disturbances may occur, indicating compromise of the blood vessels that supply the eye nerves. Treatment typically involves oral steroid medications to reduce blood vessel inflammation.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
The temporomandibular joint is the hinge-like connection between the lower jaw and skull located in front of the ear. Structural and functional abnormalities of this important joint are termed temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that pain from the temporomandibular joint may radiate to the temporal region of the head, causing frequent headaches. Other possible symptoms of TMJ include a limited ability to open the mouth, painful chewing, stiffness of the jaw muscles, neck pain and misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. Treatment for TMJ varies depending on the nature and severity of the disorder.
Migraine
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that migraine is a form of intermittent headache typically characterized by severe pain confined to a specific location of the head. The temporal region can be the focal point of migraine headaches. Accompanying symptoms frequently include intolerance to bright light or loud noise, temporary visual disturbances, and nausea and vomiting. The Mayo Clinic reports that triggers for migraine headaches may include certain foods, alcohol consumption, anxiety, hormone fluctuations and certain odors. Treatment focuses on preventing attacks and interrupting migraine symptoms when they occur.
Temporal Lobe Tumors
Headaches are a common symptom of brain tumors, reports Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Brain tumors of the temporal lobe may cause localized headaches in this region. Characteristics of brain tumor headaches include being most painful in the morning with improvement during the day; pain relief associated with vomiting; non-throbbing, deep ache; and progressively worsening pain over time. New onset seizure activity is an important possible warning sign of brain tumor.
References
- Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals: Giant Cell Arteritis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Temporal Arteritis
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery: TMJ
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: TMJ Disorders
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Migraine Information
