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Tension Headaches

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Reviewed/Revised Mar 2023
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What are tension headaches?

  • Tension headaches are common and not dangerous

  • The pain isn't usually severe

  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, helps lower your pain

  • Jaw problems, neck pain, or eyestrain can cause tension headaches

  • Stress may cause tension headaches

What causes tension headaches?

Doctors don’t understand exactly why tension headaches happen, but you may get them if you have:

What are the symptoms of tension headaches?

You have:

  • Pain in your head that feels like a band tightening around your head

  • Pain that is mild or moderate, not severe—the pain doesn’t usually stop you from your daily tasks

  • Your pain doesn’t get worse with light, sounds, smells, or when you move around

  • Your headache doesn’t make you feel sick or throw up

There are 2 types of tension headaches, based on how often they happen:

  • Episodic headaches happen less than 15 days a month

  • Chronic (long-lasting) headaches happen 15 or more days a month

If you have episodic tension- headaches, your headache may:

  • Start several hours after waking up and get worse later in the day

  • Last 30 minutes to several days

If you have chronic tension headaches, your headache may:

  • Be almost always present, and get better and worse throughout the day

  • Get worse each day

How can doctors tell if I have tension headaches?

Certain warning signs suggest your headache is not an ordinary tension headache. See a doctor right away for a headache if you have:

  • Changes in your vision, weakness, drowsiness, confusion, loss of balance, or trouble speaking

  • A fever and stiff neck

  • A sudden, very severe headache that came on like a thunderclap

  • Tenderness at your temple (as when combing hair) or jaw pain when chewing

  • Cancer, AIDS, or a weak immune system

  • A worsening headache

  • Red eyes and halos seen around lights

How do doctors treat tension headaches?

Doctors may tell you to:

  • Take pain medicine, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen

  • Massage your head and neck

  • Do activities to help you relax and lower stress

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION
VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION
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