Tension headaches, also known as stress headaches or tension-type headaches, are the most common type of primary headache. They are characterized by a dull, aching pain that usually affects both sides of the head. Tension headaches are often described as a sensation of a tight band or pressure around the head. Unlike migraines, tension headaches are not usually accompanied by severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound.

Symptoms:

Tension headaches can vary in intensity and duration. Common symptoms include:

1. Pain: The pain is often described as a constant, steady ache that affects both sides of the head. It can also radiate to the neck and shoulders.
2. Tightness or Pressure: People often feel as if there’s a tight band or pressure around their head. This sensation can vary in intensity.
3. Duration: Tension headaches can last from 30 minutes to several days. However, they typically don’t cause the severe disruption of daily activities that migraines might.

Causes:

The exact cause of tension headaches isn’t fully understood, but several factors can contribute:

1. Muscle Tension: One theory suggests that muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp can lead to tension headaches. This tension could result from factors like poor posture, stress, or even clenching the jaw.
2. Stress: Emotional and psychological stress can trigger tension headaches. Stress may lead to muscle tension and changes in neurotransmitter levels.
3. Environmental Factors: Factors like poor lighting, loud noise, or long periods of computer or screen time can strain the eyes and contribute to tension headaches.
4. Caffeine: Both caffeine withdrawal and excessive caffeine intake have been linked to tension headaches in some individuals.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing tension headaches is typically based on a thorough medical history and a physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their frequency and duration, and any potential triggers. Imaging or other diagnostic tests are not usually necessary for diagnosing tension headaches, as they are diagnosed primarily based on their clinical presentation.

Treatment and Management:

Managing tension headaches involves a combination of lifestyle changes, self-care strategies, and, if necessary, medical interventions:

Stress Management: Learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation, can help reduce the frequency and intensity of tension headaches.

Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, and getting regular exercise can all contribute to headache prevention.

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or aspirin can provide relief. In more severe cases, a doctor might prescribe muscle relaxants or other medications.

Biofeedback: This technique helps you become more aware of physiological functions like muscle tension, allowing you to learn how to control them.