Tension headache

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Brain

Headache

Headache

Tension-type headache

Muscle contraction headache; Benign headache; Headache - tension

• Headache
  • Dull, pressure-like
  • Generalized (all over, not just in one point or one side), worse in the scalp, temples or back of the neck
  • Feels like a tight band or vise on the head
  • Occurs as an isolated incident, or occurs constantly or daily
  • Worsened or triggered by stress, fatigue, noise, glare
• Difficulty sleeping

A headache that is mild to moderate, not accompanied by other symptoms, and which responds to home treatment within a few hours may not need further examination or testing. If a neurologic (nervous system) examination is performed, a tension headache causes no abnormal findings. However, tenderness in the muscles near the skull is often present.

The health care provider should be consulted -- to rule out other disorders that can cause headache -- if the headache is severe, persistent (does not go away), or if other symptoms happen with the headache.

Headaches that disturb sleep, occur whenever the person is active, or that are recurrent or chronic may also require examination and treatment by a health care provider.

Review Date: 09/07/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.