Health A to Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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 symptoms

    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

    Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
    Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022