In this episode of Synapse, we tackle one of the most common presentations in Australian primary care: the headache. We provide a clear guide to cut through the complexity, starting with how to take a representative history and spot crucial red flags with the SNOOP4 mnemonic. We then demystify the approach to neuroimaging and provide clinical pearls for managing common primary headaches like migraine and TTH , as well as can't-miss secondary causes like Giant Cell Arteritis.

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Podcast: Unlocking TMJ: Pain, Popping, and Pathways to Relief

Is it a dull ache in your face, a painful click in your jaw, a tension headache you can't shake, or a persistent earache? You might be dealing with temporomandibular dysfunction, or TMD. Affecting millions of people, especially women in their 20s and 30s, this complex condition is one of the most common causes of non-dental facial pain.

In this episode, we separate fact from fiction and provide a clear guide to understanding your jaw pain. We break down the two main culprits: pain from the hardworking muscles of mastication and problems from within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) itself.

Join us to learn:

• The common symptoms of TMD, from jaw discomfort and popping sounds to referred pain like headaches and earaches.
• The surprising links between TMD, stress, anxiety, and parafunctional habits like teeth clenching and bruxism.
• How TMD is diagnosed, and why a detailed history and physical exam are often more important than imaging.
• The most effective first-line conservative treatments, including patient education, self-care strategies, and the role of physical therapy.
• A straightforward look at medications, from which ones are recommended for initial treatment to those that should be used with caution.
• When to consider other options like occlusal splints or a referral to a specialist.

The good news is that for the vast majority of patients, symptoms resolve with simple, non-invasive therapies. Tune in to find out how you can manage your symptoms and find relief.

Podcast based on the following articles:

• TMJ dysfunction AFP .pdf
• TMJ dysfunction Article .pdf
• AJGP-04-2018-Clinical-Lomas-Temperomandibular.pdf

Keywords: Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD); Orofacial Pain; Myofascial Pain; Articular Disc Displacement; Bruxism (Teeth Grinding); Masticatory Muscles; Jaw Clicking & Popping; Headache and TMJ; Conservative Management; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and TMJ; Physiotherapy and TMJ; Occlusal Splints for TMJD.

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Is it a ringing, a buzzing, a hissing, or a hum? Tinnitus is one of the most common symptoms people experience, but it's widely misunderstood. More than just an annoyance, persistent tinnitus can significantly affect mood, sleep, and overall quality of life.

In this episode, we cut through the noise to bring you a clear, evidence-based guide to tinnitus. We explore what's really happening in your auditory system when you perceive a sound that isn't there.

Join us as we discuss:

• The crucial difference between pulsatile and nonpulsatile tinnitus, and why it matters for your health.
• The "red flag" symptoms, like unilateral (one-sided) tinnitus, that warrant a specialist referral.
• Why a formal hearing test is the essential first step for almost every patient.
• Effective management strategies that go beyond "just live with it," including the proven benefits of hearing aids, sound therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you regain control.
• Why most medications are not recommended and what you should focus on instead.

Whether you're personally affected by tinnitus or are a clinician looking for a clear approach, this episode provides the essential information you need to understand the causes, appropriate investigations, and most effective management pathways.

Podcast based on the following articles:

• AFP Approach to Tinnitus .pdf
• Apprach to Tinnitus NEW .pdf
• AJGP-04-2018-Clinical-Esmaili-Tinnitus.pdf

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