MyMediktor - Tension headache

Very low urgency

Very common-

Most common headache triggered by stress, depression and/or anxiety. Manifests with oppressive headache, pain in the temples, scalp and the rear part of the neck and shoulders. Diagnosis is clinical and it is treated with regular painkillers or with those associated with muscle relaxants and/or anti-anxiety drugs. Behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques or training in the management of stress is recommended to prevent new episodes.

Bibliographic references

Frederick R Taylor. Tension-type headache in adults: Acute treatment. UpToDate. Jul 06, 2016.
Bendtsen L, Evers S, Linde M, et al. EFNS guideline on the treatment of tension-type headache - report of an EFNS task force. Eur J Neurol 2010; 17:1318.
Goadsby, Peter J., Raskin, Neil H. Migrañas y otras cefaleas primarias. Cefalea tensional. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19ª Edición. 2593:2595.
A. Urbano-Márquez, R. Estruch. Generalidades. Cefalea tensional. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 1318:1320.

Author

Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol

Copyright

Symptoms

Headache

Headache due to stress

Headache at the temples

Oppressive headache

Headache in the forehead area

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)

Neck stiffness

If it is accompanied by seizures

Loss of sensibility and/or motility in limbs

If you have suffered a trauma.

Blurry vision

Eye and/or ear pain.

Vomiting

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.

Lie down in a dark, quiet room.

Behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques or stress management training to avoid new episodes.