Tension headache (Paediatrics)

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Headache due to psychosomatic causes. This is the most common type of headache from the age of 7.

It is caused by stress, depression and anxiety, even fatigue.

It is associated with an oppressive headache (tightening sensation) of the temples, scalp, back of neck and shoulders.

Diagnosis is clinical through the patient's questioning and a physical examination.

It is treated with common analgesics alone or combined with muscle relaxants and/or anxiolytics. The underlying cause must be resolved, in order to avoid its chronification or reappearance. Regular exercise and relaxing activities prevent its appearance.

If the pain does not subside with analgesics or if other neurological symptoms appear, (weakness, loss of sensation, loss of consciousness) a paediatrician should be consulted without delay.

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 38 ºC)
Neck stiffness
If it is accompanied by seizures
Loss of sensitivity and/or motility in limbs
Eye pain and/or earache.
If you have suffered a trauma.
Blurry vision
Vomiting

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Lay in a dark and quiet room.
Behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques or stress management training to prevent further episodes.