Introduction A tension headache is a feeling of pain, pressure, or aching in the head, often over the front and sides of the head. The pain can be dull, or it can feel tight (constricting). Tension headaches are not normally associated with nausea or vomiting, and they do not get worse with physical activity. There are two types of tension headache: Episodic tension headache. This is when you have a headache fewer than 15 days a month. Chronic tension headache. This is when you have a headache more than 15 days a month during a 3-month period. A tension headache can last from 30 minutes to several days. It is the most common kind of headache. What are the causes? The exact cause of this condition is not known. Tension headaches are often triggered …show more content…
Holding your head and neck in the same position for a long period of time, such as while using a computer. Smoking. Arthritis of the neck. What are the signs or symptoms? Symptoms of this condition include: A feeling of pressure or tightness around the head. Dull, aching head pain. Pain over the front and sides of the head. Tenderness in the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders. How is this diagnosed? This condition may be diagnosed based on your symptoms, your medical history, and a physical exam. If your symptoms are severe or unusual, you may have imaging tests, such as a CT scan or an MRI of your head. Your vision may also be checked. How is this treated? This condition may be treated with lifestyle changes and with medicines that help relieve symptoms. Follow these instructions at home: Managing pain Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider. When you have a headache, lie down in a dark, quiet room. If directed, apply ice to the head and neck area: Put ice in a plastic bag. Place a towel between your skin and the bag. Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times per …show more content…
Leave the heat on for 20–30 minutes. Remove the heat if your skin turns bright red. This is especially important if you are unable to feel pain, heat, or cold. You may have a greater risk of getting burned. Eating and drinking Eat meals on a regular schedule. Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink a day for nonpregnant women and 2 drinks a day for men. One drink equals 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1½ oz of hard liquor. Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow. Decrease your caffeine intake, or stop using caffeine. Lifestyle Get 7–9 hours of sleep each night, or get the amount of sleep recommended by your health care provider. At bedtime, remove all electronic devices from your room. Electronic devices include computers, phones, and tablets. Find ways to manage your stress. Some things that can help relieve stress include: Exercise. Deep breathing exercises. Yoga. Listening to music. Positive mental imagery. Try to sit up straight and avoid tensing your muscles. Do not use tobacco products, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider. General