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Tension headache

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• Symptoms
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Definition:

A tension headache is a condition involving pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, usually associated with muscle tightness in these areas.

Alternative Names:

Muscle contraction headache; Benign headache; Headache - tension

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tension headaches are one of the most common forms of headaches . They may occur at any age, but are most common in adults and adolescents. If a headache occurs 2 or more times weekly for several months or longer, the condition is considered chronic . Tension headaches can occur when the patient also has a migraine.

Tension headaches result from the contraction (tensing) of neck and scalp muscles. One cause of this muscle contraction is a response to stress, depression, head injury, or anxiety. Any activity that causes the head to be held in one position for a long time without moving can cause a headache. Such activities include typing or use of computers, fine work with the hands, and use of a microscope. Sleeping in a cold room or sleeping with the neck in an abnormal position may also trigger this type of headache.

Other causes include eye strain, fatigue , alcohol use , excessive smoking, excessive caffeine use, sinus infection , nasal congestion , overexertion, colds, and influenza. Tension headaches are not associated with structural abnormalities in the brain.

• Review Date: 9/7/2006
• Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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