Tension Headaches: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

What are Tension Headaches?

A tension-type headache (TTH) typically feels like a tight band is wrapping around the head and ranges in intensity from mild to moderate. The most frequent sort of headache is a tension headache; however, it is unclear what causes them.

There are remedies for headaches of this nature. Finding a balance between good habits, non-drug treatments, and proper medication use is typically key to managing tension-type headaches.

Causes of Tension Headaches

There isn't a single source of tension headaches that has been conclusive as to why these headaches occur. However, it is known that this sort of headache is not inherited. Some medical professionals believe that tense neck or back muscles might cause or contribute to tension headaches.

If you have any of the following, you might be more susceptible to tension headaches:

• Eye strain, such as that brought on by prolonged computer use.
• Other head and neck pain brought on by conditions, such as temporomandibular disorders
• Insomnia.
• Stress brought on by obligations to one's family, employment, or other aspects of one's life.

Symptoms of Tension Headaches

Typical signs and symptoms of tension-type headaches include the following:

• A headache that begins later in the day that is of mild to moderate intensity in the front, top, or sides of your skull
• Exhaustion
• Crankiness
• Focusing issues
• Little sensitivity to noise or light
• Muscle pain

With tension-type headaches, you won't experience other neurological symptoms, such as muscle weakness or blurred vision, as you would with migraine headaches. Also, excessive sensitivity to light or noise, as well as stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting are not typical symptoms of tension headaches.

 When to see a doctor for Tension Headaches?

Schedule a visit with your physician if your tension-type headaches interfere with your life or if you require pain relievers more than twice a week. If your headache pattern changes or they start to feel different all of a sudden, even if you have a history of headaches, consult your doctor. Sometimes, headaches can be a sign of a serious medical problem, such as a brain tumor or a blood vessel burst (aneurysm).

Get emergency assistance if you experience any of the following symptoms or signs:

• Sudden, intense headache
• Headache and fever, stiff neck, mental disorientation, convulsions, double vision, weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
• Headache following a head injury, especially if it intensifies