A tension headache is extremely common and about two thirds of all people will suffer one at some point in their lives. A tension headache is commonly felt on both sides of the head and the pain is dull but persistent. The intensity with which the pain of a tension headache is felt will vary from person to person but it is usually described as a feeling of pressure, heaviness or tightness in a band around the whole head, forehead or back of the head.

When Does a Tension Headache Occur?

Tension headache is usually episodic in nature and can last for anything from a half hour to a whole week. This kind of headache generally doesn’t occur frequently but can progress to chronic tension headaches when they occur almost permanently and with varied intensity all day long and even at night.

A chronic tension headache will be diagnosed when it occurs for more than 15 days in each month. When this happens the sufferer will wake up with a headache and it will continue as a dull ache for the entire day.

What Causes Tension Headache?

It is thought that tension headache could be caused by emotional or physical stress and they often do occur after or during an argument, when we are very tired, after intense bouts of reading, dehydration or sitting for a long time with bad posture or by listening to loud music. Muscle tension in the neck and back are a contributing factor.

How Is Tension Headache Treated?

Tension headache can be prevented by keeping your body fit, getting enough sleep and having regular sleep patterns, exercising and stretching the appropriate muscle groups and sticking to a well balanced diet and regular meals.

Relaxation techniques may help for some people as do techniques to improve the body posture like yoga. Mediation is sometimes used as a therapy because it helps to relax the mind and body when you are under stress.

If you do decide to use medication, tension headache can be treated with mild, over-the-counter analgesics like aspirin or paracetamol but if your headache doesn’t abate you can try a shower or bath and apply a warm compress to your forehead and try to relax and sleep if possible.

If you have chronic tension headaches talk to your doctor. He or she may prescribe a tricyclic antidepressant. This kind of medication has been successful in treating chronic headache and will boost your mood as an added advantage. This can be especially important if underlying depression is causing your headaches.

Your doctor will want to rule out the possibility of migraines as about 10% of migraine sufferers also have tension headaches, so it may be a good idea to keep a headache diary so you can track your symptoms.

When to See Your Doctor

Consult a physician if:

* Your tension headache continues for longer than 24 hours or occurs more than three times a week.

* You wake up with headaches, or they are worse in the mornings

* Your headache begins with a period of exercise or when you strain or cough.

* Your headache worsens over several days.