Tension Type Headache

TENSION TYPE HEADACHE

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Overview

Tension-type headache is common, and can occur at any age. The name ‘tension-type’ does not mean that these headaches are caused by muscle tension or stress, it is simply the term used to describe this headache. The headache is commonly constant and isn’t associated with nausea, light or sound sensitivity. Management includes lifestyle modifications, oral preventatives and occasionally injectable can be tried.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

The pain in usually affects both side of the head and tends to be more constant, described as tightening or pressing rather than throbbing. It isn’t associated with nausea and/or vomiting or sensitivity to light or sound. The pain can last anywhere from 30mins to several days. We do not know the exact causes of tension-type headaches. Stress and muscle tension can exacerbate them as can certain environmental triggers such. As stress, tiredness and dehydration. 

Treatments & Key Areas We Specialise In

  • Treatment

    Treatment involves lifestyle modification such as regular meals, sleep, hydration and moderate exercise and techniques such as mindfulness. Strategies to ensure good posture, regular breaks and muscle stresses with yoga and pilates can be tried.  Some people find acupuncture helps with a course of up to 10 sessions. Painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and paracetamol are commonly used to treat tension-type headache. It shouldn’t be necessary to take stronger medications. Using painkillers more than twice a week can increase the risk of tension-type developing into chronic daily headache. If they become more troublesome preventative medication, such as antidepressants, and injectable can be tried, however the evidence is limited.

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