Tension headaches are generally described as a feeling of a tight band around the head. This is the most common type of headache, and it usually causes mild to moderate pain. The causes of this headache are not well understood, but most people can manage tension headaches with preventative measures after diagnosis with this condition.
The symptoms of tension headaches are:
These headaches might be considered episodic or chronic. Episodic tension headaches can last for about 30 minutes to a week at a time. Chronic tension headaches might last hours or might be continuous.
The cause of this kind of headache is not well understood. It used to be thought that these headaches were caused by muscle contractions in the neck and shoulders or were the result of heightened emotions, tension, or stressful situations. Current research seems to indicate that those with tension headaches might actually suffer from a sensitised pain system that leads to this kind of pain. Stress is still considered to be a primary factor in tension headache onset for some patients.
The risk factors for tension headaches are:
There is no single test that definitively diagnose tension headaches. A full health history will be collected by your medical provider to find out more about your daily routine and the triggers that might be associated with your pain. Headache specialists can be consulted as well to help narrow down the possible causes of your headaches and to determine which additional tests might be needed to verify a diagnosis.
An MRI might be ordered to rule out things like brain tumours and brain bleeds. Imaging tests like CT scans can also be done to help rule out other health conditions which can cause similar symptoms. The Headache Disorders-3 guide will often also be used to help determine if a patient is having tension headaches or another kind of pain.
The most common treatment for this kind of headache is simple treatment with over-the-counter pain medications like Aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil. Some patients are able to get relief from their tension headaches by taking prescription antidepressants like amitriptyline. Hot and cold compresses can also help to manage pain and tension related to these headaches. Some patients are also sent to biofeedback therapy which can help the body to retrain its response to stress and pain for improved pain management.
Prevention of these headaches involves being more aware of your body’s needs and making sure to take pain medication at the first sign of symptoms. Some patients are able to prevent most of their tension headaches through the use of meditation and relaxation training or by reducing the stress in their daily lives. Making sure to eat a good diet, refrain from drinking alcohol and caffeine, and being sure to get enough sleep each night can also help to prevent these headaches.