Friendly Print preview

.. see also headaches

Tension headache

What is the cause of tension headache?

Overactivity of muscles of the scalp, forehead and neck causes tension headache. A dull ache or tightness in these areas, like a tight band around the head or a heavy weight on top, results from this overactivity.

Trigger factors

• increased tension or stress (both mental and physical), for example:
• excessive worry
• all work-no play
• long periods of study, typing or other concentration
• perfectionism
• increased tension in the neck muscles, for example:
• poor posture
• injuries to the spine
• repressed hostility, anger or frustration
• a poor, scrappy diet, for example eating on the run (combined with stress)

What is the treatment?

Drugs

A mild pain-killer such as aspirin or paracetamol can help stop the pain, but avoid stronger drugs (including tranquillisers) unless directed by your doctor.

Self-help

The best treatment is to modify your lifestyle in order to eliminate or reduce the trigger factors. For example:

• Learn to relax your mind and body.
• During an attack, relax by lying down in a hot bath or spa with a warm dry cloth (or even a cold wet cloth) over the aching area.
• You could attend special relaxation courses such as yoga or meditation classes.
• Be less of a perfectionist; do not be a slave to the clock.
• Do not bottle things up. Stop feeling guilty. Approve of yourself. Express yourself and your anger.
• If your neck is aching, massage or mobilisation followed by special exercises should help.
  

Copyright 1995: John Murtagh, Professor of General Practice
Monash University, Melbourne, Australia