Understanding Tension Headache: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies

Tension headache is a common form of headache that affects people of all ages. Characterized by a dull aching pain around the head, behind the eyes, and neck, tension headaches are often caused by muscular tension or emotional stress. Although most people experience mild to moderate headaches that last for a few hours once or twice a month, some may suffer more frequently, with headaches lasting for 15 days or more per month. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and home remedies for tension headache.

Symptoms of Tension Headache

Tension headache is often confused with migraines. However, understanding the symptoms can help differentiate between the two. Unlike migraines, which are characterized by throbbing pain, tension headache presents as a dull ache that may spread all over the head, forehead, and scalp. The pain caused by tension headache can also be accompanied by muscle tenderness, pressure around the forehead, and occasionally, sensitivity to light and sound.

Tension Headache vs. Migraine

It is important to differentiate between tension headache and migraine as they have different symptoms and treatments. While tension headache is often mild to moderate, migraines can be much more severe and cause nausea, vomiting, and an increased sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines usually last longer than tension headaches and may occur on one or both sides of the head.

Causes of Tension Headache

Tension headaches are usually caused by muscular tension or emotional stress. However, there are other factors that can trigger tension headache, including looking at a computer screen for long periods, bad posture, missing meals, inadequate sleep, smoking, and changes in temperature or seasons. Other factors such as sinus attacks, mental stress, fever, and alcohol may also cause tension headaches.

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing consistent and intense tension headaches, it may be advisable to seek a doctor’s help. The doctor will conduct a list of tests, including X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Medications

Typically, over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help ease the pain of tension headache. However, if the pain is severe, prescription medications such as muscle relaxants, antidepressants, antiseizure drugs, or beta-blockers may be prescribed.

Home Remedies for Tension Headache

Along with traditional medication, there are several home remedies that you can try to relieve the pain caused by tension headache. These include:

1. Putting an ice pack on the forehead for five to ten minutes.
2. Improving posture by sitting correctly.
3. Taking a hot shower to relax the tensed muscles.
4. Taking occasional breaks from working on a computer or phone.
5. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine.
6. Practicing meditation.
7. Managing stress levels by participating in relaxation activities.
8. Getting a massage, either full body or a scalp massage, to increase blood circulation in the head.
9. Trying supplements such as magnesium or melatonin to induce relaxation.
10. Keeping track of your headaches with a journal will help identify triggers and prevent future headaches.

Final Thoughts

Tension headaches can be mild to moderate in nature and can be caused by muscular tension or emotional strain. Although over-the-counter medicines can help relieve the pain associated with tension headaches, there are several home remedies that one can try, including practicing relaxation techniques or taking occasional breaks from screens. It is always advisable to seek a doctor’s help if you experience consistent and intense headaches or if over-the-counter remedies do not provide relief.