Tension headache
Alternative Names
Muscle contraction headache; Benign headache; Headache - tensionSymptoms
- Headache
- Dull, pressure-like
- Generalized (all over, not just in one point or one side), worse in the scalp, temples or back of the neck
- Feels like a tight band or vise on the head
- Occurs as an isolated incident, or occurs constantly or daily
- Worsened or triggered by stress, fatigue, noise, glare
- Difficulty sleeping
Exams and Tests
A headache that is mild to moderate, not accompanied by other symptoms, and which responds to home treatment within a few hours may not need further examination or testing. If a neurologic (nervous system) examination is performed, a tension headache causes no abnormal findings. However, tenderness in the muscles near the skull is often present.
The health care provider should be consulted -- to rule out other disorders that can cause headache -- if the headache is severe, persistent (does not go away), or if other symptoms happen with the headache.
Headaches that disturb sleep, occur whenever the person is active, or that are recurrent or chronic may also require examination and treatment by a health care provider.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.