TENSION HEADACHES

Tension Headaches are essentially muscle aches. There are dozens of muscles in the head, face and neck. Tensions and spasms in these muscles are the most common cause of headaches. They’re typically brought on by stress, uncomfortable pillows, teeth grinding, caffeine, dehydration, poor posture, etc.

Typical symptoms?

Vague, bilateral, dull, tight and mild. The pain is usually localized to the “headband” zone. It often radiates to the neck. The pain lasts anywhere from 15 minutes to a week. Typically not worsened by exercise. Overall, it’s basically the opposite of the POUND mnemonic that’s used for remembering migraine symptoms. 

Will they have any other symptoms besides pain?

Not really.

How do you diagnose?

The diagnosis is clinical (meaning the doctor stops testing and settles on this diagnosis based on the H&P). 

How do you treat it?

Lifestyle changes (new pillows, neck stretches, yoga) are first line. Hydrate better. Sleep more. Take some NSAIDs.