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Tension headache (Pediatrics - PEDS)

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This is the most common headache from the age of 7. It is caused by stress, depression and/or anxiety or even fatigue. It is associated with an oppressive headache (tightening sensation) of the temples, scalp, back of neck and shoulders. Diagnosis is clinical and it is treated with common painkillers alone or combined with muscle relaxants and/or anxiolytics. The underlying cause must be resolved, in addition to regular exercise and relaxing activities. Speak to a pediatrician if the headache does not abate with common painkillers.
Bibliographic references
  1. Hope O'Brien, MD, FAHS. Tension-type headache in children. UpToDate. Jun 01, 2016.
  2. 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.
  3. Goadsby, Peter J., Raskin, Neil H. Migrañas y otras cefaleas primarias. Cefalea tensional. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19ª Edición. 2593:2595.
  4. A. Urbano-Márquez, R. Estruch. Generalidades. Cefalea tensional. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 1318:1320.
  5. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS). The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013; 33:629.
  6. Bendtsen L, Jensen R. Tension-type headache: the most common, but also the most neglected, headache disorder. Curr Opin Neurol 2006; 19:305.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Fever / Feel very hot

    Headache

    Headache due to stress

    State of anxiety

    Headache on the sides of the head

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
Eye and/or ear pain.
If you have suffered a trauma.
Blurry vision
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.
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