A tension headache is the most common type of headache, which is described as a mild to moderate pain, feeling like a band around the head. It is a discomfort in the head, neck, or scalp associated with muscle tightness in the area.
This type of headache can put pressure on the temples or forehead. It is caused by several factors and can be triggered by some unavoidable events.
Types of Tension Headaches
Healthcare experts have classified tension headaches based on how often a person has one. This includes:
- Infrequent episodic: Headaches that happen once a month or fewer. These headaches can last from 30 minutes to a week and are infrequent.
- Frequent episodic: Headaches that occur 1 to 14 times each month for at least 3 months. These can occur within less than 15 days and can last for three months or more. This type of headache tends to become chronic.
- Chronic: Headaches that occur more than 15 times every month for 3 months or more. This type can last for hours and may be constant.
Causes of a Tension Headache
Stress is not the only cause of a tension headache, and a variety of reasons can cause it. Researchers suggest that there is no single cause of a tension headache. Some believe that the headache starts when the muscles between the neck and head are knotted up, tightening the scalp muscles. This muscular ripple effect can be caused when you’re dealing with an emotional conflict. Other causes include:
- Neck strain from looking down
- Eye strain from staring at a screen
- TMJ (Temporomandibular jaw disorder)
- Degenerative arthritis in the neck
- Sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Alcohol use
- Caffeine use (or withdrawal)
- Sinus infection, colds, or flu
- Overexertion or fatigue
Symptoms of a Tension Headache
Symptoms can vary from person to person. But commonly, the symptoms of a tension headache can be described as:
- Dulling, pressure-like pain (not throbbing)
- Tightness or pressure across the forehead, sides, and back of the head
- Tenderness in the shoulder muscles, neck, and scalp
- Sensitivity to sound and light
Feeling a squeeze on the sides of the head
These symptoms can occur daily or constantly, and can last for 30 minutes to 7 days. This type of headache can get worse with stress, glare, fatigue, or noise. One may experience difficulty in sleeping, but it does not cause vomiting or nausea.
How is it diagnosed?
Healthcare experts may take your medical history and symptoms. They may ask the following questions:
- How often do you have the symptoms?
- Do you feel that your symptoms are getting worse at a specific time of day?
- Do the symptoms feel worse after doing some activity?
- Do over-the-counter pain medications help you feel better?
They may suggest doing a brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or a CT scan (Computed Tomography) to check and rule out any underlying issues.
To Sum It Up
Stress and headaches are interconnected, but several other reasons can cause a tension headache. Knowing about the types, symptoms, and causes may help you narrow down your condition and help you understand what you’re going through.
Contact us at Sleep and Headache Solutions to get expert opinion, help, and relief from your headaches. You can also call (832) 688-8886 and request an appointment.