Tension headache

Alternative names:

benign headache; headache - tension; muscle contraction headache

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence of the headache. Prevention is the best treatment. Remove or control precipitating factors.

Learn and practice stress management strategies. Relaxation through meditation, relaxation exercises, or other means, can be helpful for some people. Biofeedback (a means of providing information about certain body functions) may aid in performance of relaxation exercises and may be helpful for chronic tension headache.

Other preventive measures may include keeping warm if the headache is associated with cold, using a different pillow or sleeping position, or similar activities. Use good posture when reading, working, or being involved in activities that may cause headache. Exercise the neck and shoulders frequently when typing, working on computers, doing close work, and so on.

Adequate sleep and rest or massage of sore muscles can help reduce a headache. Hot or cold showers or baths may relieve a headache for some people.

Over-the-counter analgesics may relieve pain if the above measures are ineffective. An antidepressant or other medications may be advised for chronic headache.

A headache diary may be used to try to identify the source of chronic headaches. When headache occurs, write down the date and time the headache began. Note what was eaten for the preceding 24 hours, sleep pattern and amount, what was being experienced immediately before the headache, unusual stress or other circumstance, how long the headache lasted, and what made it stop.

Lifestyle changes may be required for chronic tension headaches. This may include adequate rest and exercise, change in job or recreational habits, or other changes.

Expectations (prognosis):

Tension headaches usually responds well to treatment without residual effects. They are annoying but not dangerous.

Complications:

The headache may not be a tension headache but may be a symptom of another more serious disorder.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if headaches occur and are severe, persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by other symptoms (such as drowsiness, vision changes, changes in movement or sensation, seizures, changes in alertness, nausea/vomiting, or other symptoms).

Also call if headaches disturb sleep, occur whenever the person is active, are recurrent or chronic, or if a headache does not respond to treatment.