Tension Headache Symptoms and Relief
Tension-type headache pain is often described as a constant pressure, as if the head were being squeezed in a vise. The pain is frequently bilateral which means it is present on both sides of the head at once.
Tension headaches occur when neck and scalp muscles become tense or contract. The muscle contractions can be a response to stress, depression, a head injury, or anxiety.
Precipitating Factors
Various precipitating factors that cause such headaches include:
- Stress: usually occurs in the afternoon after long stressful work
- hours or after an exam
- Sleep deprivation
- Uncomfortable stressful position and/or bad posture
- Irregular meal time (hunger)
- Eyestrain
Episodic tension-type headaches generally respond well to over-the-counter analgesics such as ibuprofen, paracetamol/acetaminophen, and aspirin.
If still not relieved, amitriptyline can be prescribed (if the headache becomes chronic).
