Tension headache

Alternative names:

benign headache; headache - tension; muscle contraction headache

Definition:

A condition involving pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck; usually associated with muscle tightness in these areas.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tension headache is one of the most common forms of headache. It can occur at any age but is most common in adults and adolescents. This type of headache occurs in people of either sex. It often occurs as an isolated incident. If headache occurs two or more times weekly for several months or longer, the condition is considered chronic.

Tension headache is a result of contraction of the neck and scalp muscles. One cause of this muscle contraction is a response to stress, depression, or anxiety. Any activity that causes the head to be held in one position can cause a headache. Such activities include typing or use of computers, fine work with the hands, and use of a microscope. Sleeping in a cold room or sleeping with the neck in an abnormal position can also trigger this type of headache.

Other causes include eye strain, fatigue, alcohol use, excessive smoking, excessive caffeine use, or conditions such as sinus infection, nasal congestion, overexertion, colds, influenza, etc. Tension headaches are not associated with structural lesions in the brain.