Tension headache

Very low urgency
Very common-

Headache triggered by psychogenic causes. It is the most common type of headache.

It is triggered by stress, depression or anxiety.

It manifests with oppressive headache (typically in the temples), in the scalp and the rear part of the neck and shoulders.

Diagnosis is clinical through a questioning and a physical examination.

It is treated with regular painkillers alone or in combination with muscle relaxants and/or anti-anxiety drugs. It is necessary to treat the triggering cause to avoid it extending over time or reappearing. Doing sport regularly, as well as relaxing activities, prevent its appearance.

If the pain doesn't stop with analgesics or other related neurological symptomatology appears (weakness, loss of sensitivity, loss of consciousness), you must check with your doctor of choice immediately.

Bibliographic references
  1. Frederick R Taylor. Tension-type headache in adults: Acute treatment. UpToDate. Jul 06, 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.
Author
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

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