Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 18, 2026

A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers
08:33

A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers

Published on: January 5, 2024

Craniofacial pain as the sole symptom of cardiac ischemia: a prospective multicenter study

Marcelo Kreiner1, Jeffrey P Okeson, Virginia Michelis

  • 1Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Department of Odontology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.

Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|January 2, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Craniofacial pain can signal cardiac ischemia, especially in women. Recognizing this link is vital for diagnosing heart conditions and preventing fatal outcomes, particularly when chest pain is absent.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Dentistry
  • Pain Management

Background:

  • Craniofacial pain can be the sole indicator of cardiac ischemia.
  • Delayed recognition of cardiac sources poses life-threatening risks.
  • Understanding craniofacial pain in cardiac events is crucial for diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and distribution of craniofacial pain originating from cardiac ischemia.
  • To investigate sex differences in the presentation of cardiac-related craniofacial pain.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 186 patients with verified cardiac ischemic episodes.
  • Detailed analysis of craniofacial and intraoral pain locations and distribution.

Main Results:

  • Craniofacial pain occurred in 6% of patients as the only symptom, including some with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
  • An additional 32% experienced craniofacial pain alongside pain in other areas.
  • Common sites included the throat, jaw, ear/TMJ region, and teeth; pain was more prevalent in females and a dominant symptom without chest pain.

Conclusions:

  • Craniofacial pain is a frequent manifestation of cardiac ischemia and should be considered in differential diagnoses for toothache and orofacial pain.
  • Dentists' awareness of this symptom is critical for early diagnosis and treatment of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), especially in patients lacking chest pain, thereby reducing risks of missed diagnosis and mortality.
Abstract

More Related Videos

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache10:39

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache

Published on: June 2, 2014

Related Concept Videos

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI01:21

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...
Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment01:29

Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment

Angina manifests as chest pain, tightness, or squeezing discomfort typically located behind the breastbone. It can radiate to the neck, jaw, shoulders, and inner aspects of the upper arms, most commonly the left arm. Patients may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, profuse sweating, dizziness, indigestion, heartburn, palpitations, anxiety, and vomiting as accompanying symptoms. This pain often lasts a few minutes and is triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, heavy meals, or cold...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System I:Echocardiography01:17

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System I:Echocardiography

Cardiac imaging studies encompass a wide range of noninvasive and minimally invasive techniques designed to visualize the heart's structure and function in detail. One such technique is echocardiography, which uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to produce detailed images of the heart, known as echocardiograms.
Indications: Echocardiography is utilized to diagnose heart failure, valve disorders, and myocardial infarction. It also assesses cardiac structures' size, shape, and motion, evaluates...