Tension headaches
Tension headaches are common and often among most people. Painkillers are one way to treat yourself during headaches, but if it gets severe and stays for over a week, consult a doctor for advice.Tension headaches are not a symptom of an underlying condition.
Tension headache symptoms
Typical symptoms of tension headaches include:
- Pain on both the sides of the head
- Pressing or tightened feeling in head
- Paining area may feel tender and hurts while touching
Tension headache causes
- Stress is the standard cause of headaches
- Insomnia or sleep problems
- Caffeine
Tension headache self-treatments
- Painkillers (but if you are under 16, kindly avoid aspirin)
- Try activities that may help you relax, like exercise or yoga
- Try changing your sleeping patterns if you have problems like insomnia
- Use a low, firm pillow
- Heat or cold packs if you have headaches or neck pain
- Avoid contact with other people and try staying home
- Cut down or don’t consume drinks with caffeine in them
Tension headache emergency
Consult a doctor if:
- You are having headaches several times
- Painkillers and relaxing activities don’t help reduce the pain
- Having throbbing pain or pain on one side of your head
- If you feel ill, sick, vomit, and find noise or light painful
To explore your health concerns in detail and receive expert advice, you can easily access our free doctor consultation service, designed to provide you with the support you need.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022