Defining a Tension Headache

The general description of a headache is a pain in the head or upper neck. A tension headache which is the most prominent headache expands that description to a pounding pain in the head right above the eyes or ears. There is also pounding pain behind the head or in the back upper neck. The pain is described as a dull and achy.

The feeling of tightness or pressure is across your forehead, on the sides and back of your neck. Scalp, neck and shoulders are tender to the touch. If it is a severe tension headache there may be a loss of appetite.  Severity of pain varies from person to person. It can also vary headache to headache. Headaches can last thirty minutes to a week. They are a result of continued contractions of the face and neck muscles often caused by fatigue, stress or frustration, nerves and anxiety.  If a headache from tension lasts a minimum of fifteen days out of a month it is considered a chronic headache. Any time you have a chronic headache it could be a warning of other medical problems.

What causes a tension headache?

Headaches caused by tension usually do not include visual problems, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and numbness of the body like migraines. Life situations likely to cause the most tension are problems at home, family problems, starting a new job, going back to school, tests or exams and returning to a job after a leave of absence.

More are losing a job, being conscious of a weight problem, not getting enough sleep or being a perfectionist. Clinching or grinding of teeth will trigger head pain. Head pain could result from the stress of a busy day. Sleep deprivation causes fatigue which leads to stress and then headache. Laying wrong when you sleep or sitting in an uncomfortable position triggers pain. Not eating meals on a regular basis, eye strain, and dehydration will also trigger head pain.

Effective treatments for headaches caused by tension are available. Treatment often includes a balance between practicing healthy eating habits, using effective natural remedies and by pampering yourself.