What is a headache?
Headache is defined as pain in the head or upper neck. It is one of the most common locations of pain in the body and has many causes.
What causes tension headaches?
While tension headaches are the most frequently occurring type of headache, their cause is not known. The most likely cause is contraction of the muscles that cover the skull. When the muscles covering the skull are stressed, they may spasm and cause pain. Common sites include the base of the skull where the trapezius muscles of the neck inserts, the temple where muscles that assist the jaw to move are located, and the forehead.
There is little research to confirm the exact cause of tension headaches. Tension headaches occur because of physical or emotional stress placed on the body. Physical stress that may cause tension headaches include difficult and prolonged manual labor, or sitting at a desk or computer for long periods of time Emotional stress may also cause tension headaches by causing the muscles surrounding the skull to contract.
What are the symptoms of tension headaches?
The symptoms of tension headache are:
A pain that begins in the back of the head and upper neck as a band-like tightness or pressure.
Described as a band of pressure encircling the head with the most intense pain over the eyebrows.
The pain is usually mild (not disabling) and bilateral (affecting both sides of the head).
Not associated with an aura (see below) and are not associated with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound.
Usually occur sporadically (infrequently and without a pattern) but can occur frequently and even daily in some people.
Most people are able to function despite their tension headaches.
How are tension headaches treated?
Tension headaches are painful, and often patients are upset that the diagnosis is "only" a tension headache. Though it is not life-threatening, a tension headache can affect daily life activities.
Most people successfully treat themselves with over-the–counter (OTC) pain medications to control tension headaches. The following work well for most people:
aspirin,
ibuprofen
When should patients with headache seek medical care?
A patient should seek medical care if their headache is:
The "worst headache of your life"
Different than your usual headaches
Starts suddenly or is aggravated by exertion, coughing, bending over, or sexual activity
Associated with persistent nausea and vomiting
Associated with fever or stiff neck
Associated with seizures
Associated with recent head trauma or a fall
Associated with changes in vision, speech, or behavior
Associated with weakness or change in sensation
Not responding to treatment and is getting worse
Requires more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter medications for pain
Disabling and interfering with work and quality of life.
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