Tension headache
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's weight loss doctor NYC
Philadelphia GLP-1 weight loss and GLP-1 clinic NYC
| Tension headache | |
|---|---|
| File:Tension-headache.jpg | |
| Synonyms | Stress headache, muscle contraction headache |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Headache, pressure or tightness around the head |
| Complications | N/A |
| Onset | Gradual |
| Duration | 30 minutes to several days |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Stress, poor posture, dehydration, eye strain |
| Risks | Anxiety, depression, sleep deprivation |
| Diagnosis | Based on symptoms, physical examination |
| Differential diagnosis | Migraine, cluster headache, sinusitis |
| Prevention | Stress management, regular exercise, proper posture |
| Treatment | Pain relievers, stress reduction, physical therapy |
| Medication | Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Common |
| Deaths | None |
Tension headache, also known as a stress headache, is the most common type of headache. It can cause mild, moderate, or intense pain in your head, neck, and behind your eyes. Some people say that a tension headache feels like a tight band around their forehead.
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of tension headaches is not known. Experts believe they may be due to changes in the brain chemicals or tension in the neck and scalp muscles (possibly related to stress), or both.
Symptoms[edit]
The symptoms of a tension headache include:
- Dull head pain
- Pressure around the forehead
- Tenderness around the forehead and scalp
Diagnosis[edit]
To diagnose a tension headache, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They may also ask about your family history of headaches to determine if you have a genetic predisposition to tension headaches.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for tension headaches includes over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and other therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques.
Prevention[edit]
Prevention strategies for tension headaches include managing stress, maintaining regular sleep patterns, and regular physical activity.
See also[edit]
References[edit]
External links[edit]
 | This medical article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding the page. |
