Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, characterized by mild to moderate pain in your head that is often described as resembling the feeling of a tight band around your head. Dealing with tension headaches can be incredibly frustrating, but by learning more about this condition, you can potentially discover a treatment that works for you.
Tension Headache Symptoms
Tension headaches usually follow the same pattern of symptoms. These include dull or aching head pain, tightness or pressure across your forehead, and tenderness on your scalp, neck, or shoulders. Depending on the severity and frequency of your tension headaches, they will fall into one of two categories: episodic or chronic.
Most tension headaches are mild and short-lived, which is characteristic of an episodic tension headache. However, some people can develop more severe forms of tension headaches, which would fall into the chronic tension headache category. This type of tension headaches will last much longer and occur more frequently than the typical tension headache. If your tension headaches are disrupting your life by bothering you on a consistent basis, you may need to visit the doctor to figure out a treatment plan that works for you.
If your headache is accompanied by a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness, or speaking difficulties, seek medical attention immediately. This is especially important if these symptoms are occurring after a head injury.
Tension Headache Causes
The exact cause of tension headaches is not known. However, there appears to be a number of “triggers” that result in tension headaches. The most common triggers seem to be:
- Skipping meals
- Increased amount of stress
- Lack of sleep
- Poor posture
- Muscular tension or soreness
- Anxiety
- Underlying illness
- Eye strain
If you have recurring unusually severe headaches, your doctor might recommend some tests to try and figure out if there are any underlying, more serious causes for your headaches, such as a tumor. The most common tests to diagnose things like this are a computerized tomography (CT scan), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Tension Headache Treatments
Most people who develop tension headaches don’t need medical attention, since they are able to treat their headaches on their own. There are many over-the-counter pain relievers that should be the first option for attempting to relieve pain associated with a tension headache. The most common include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Sometimes using these drugs in combination can be more effective. There are other medications that are prescription-only that your doctor might prescribe if the pain is not alleviated by OTC medications. These might include naproxen, indomethacin, and ketorolac.
Tension Headache Prevention
If you have more severe and frequent tension headaches that aren’t relieved by pain killers, there are some things you can try to do to prevent these attacks from happening so often. There are many preventive medications that your doctor may prescribe, such as tricyclic antidepressants, other antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants. Tricyclic antidepressants are the most common approach for prevention of tension headaches.
However, there are other home remedies for preventing tension headaches that don’t require medication. If your headaches seem to be triggered by stress, try managing your stress level by being more organized and allowing yourself time to relax. Use good posture when standing and sitting to keep your muscles from becoming tense.
