HEALTH INSIGHTS

Managing Tension-type Headache Symptoms

January 17, 2020

Managing Tension-type Headache Symptoms

A tension-type headache can develop slowly. Being aware of the symptoms helps you recognize a headache early. Then you can act to reduce pain and relieve tension. Methods for relieving your symptoms include self-care and medicine.

Woman holding head in pain.

Tension-type symptoms

The earlier you recognize the symptoms of a tension-type headache, the easier it is to treat. Tension-type headaches may:

  • Start with fatigue, tension, or pain in the neck and shoulders

  • Feel like a band around the head

  • Be concentrated in the temple, the back of the head, behind the eyes, or in the face

  • Come and go, or last for days, weeks, or even longer

  • Involve referred pain — this means that the area that hurts may not be where the problem starts

Self-care during a tension-type headache

When you have a tension-type headache, there are things you can do to relax, loosen muscles, and reduce the pain:

  • Brush your scalp lightly with a soft hairbrush.

  • Give yourself a massage. Knead the muscles running from your shoulders up the back of your skull. Or ask a friend to gently massage your neck and shoulders.

  • Use an ice pack. Wrap a thin cloth around a cold pack, a cold can of soda, or a bag of frozen vegetables. Apply this directly to the place where you feel pain (such as your neck or temples).

  • Use moist heat to relax your muscles. Take a warm shower or bath. Or drape a warm, moist towel around your neck and shoulders.

Relieving pain and tension

Over-the-counter or prescription medicine can help relieve pain. Another way to reduce your pain is to use relaxation techniques to loosen tight muscles.

Medicine

Medicine used for tension-type headaches include the following:

  • NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories), such as aspirin and ibuprofen, relieve inflammation and help block pain signals.

  • Acetaminophen treats pain, and some formulations contain caffeine. 

  • Muscle relaxants can reduce painful muscle contractions.

Taking medicine safely

Be aware that:

  • Taking analgesics (pain relievers) or drinking too much coffee may lead to rebound headaches (frequent or severe headaches that can happen if you miss a dose of medication), so take pain medicines only as needed. If you think you have these headaches, contact your healthcare provider.

  • Taking too much medicine can cause sleep problems or stomach upset. Some over-the-counter headache medications may contain caffeine. These may disrupt sleep and worsen pain.

Relaxation techniques

A trainer, class, book, or tape may help you learn these techniques. One or more of these methods may work for you:

  • Deep breathing. Slow, calm, deep breathing can help you relax. Breathe in for a count of 5 or more. Then slowly let the breath out.

  • Visualization. Imagining a peaceful, secure scene can give you a sense of control over your body and surroundings.

  • Progressive relaxation. This is done by tightening and then releasing muscle groups. Start at the top of your head and work your way down your body. Tighten each muscle group for 5 to 10 seconds. Then release the muscle group for the same amount of time.

  • Biofeedback. This is a type of training in which you learn to control certain physical functions and responses. This helps you learn to reduce muscle tension.

Updated:  

January 17, 2020

Sources:  

Millea, PJ., Tension Type Headaches, American Family Physician (2002), Tension-type headache in adults: Acute treatment, Up To Date

Reviewed By:  

Fetterman, Anne, RN, BSN,Shelat, Amit, MD