Do I Have Tension Headaches?

Do you experience dull, constantly pressing pain across your forehead or on bout sides and on the back of your head?

Do you experience mild to moderate diffuse pain in your head that makes you feel like you have a tight band around your head?

Do you experience tenderness on your scalp, neck and shoulder muscles?

Does your headache last from 30 min to several hours and sometimes even for several days?

Does your headache occur several times a month?

Do you have poor posture?

Are you frequently involved in activities that cause you to hold your head in one position for a long time without moving (e.g. typing or other computer work or fine work with the hands)?

Do you have sleeping issues such as not getting enough rest?

Have you experienced any type of emotional or mental stress such as deadlines at work that you struggle with, having problems at home or you are involved in too many activities?

Do you feel that you strain your eyes while working?

Do you smoke excessively, or drink a lot of coffee or alcohol?

Do you skip meals and have low fluid intake?

Do you often experience feelings of depression or anxiety?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a tension headache. Most people occasionally have headaches for many different reasons. There are many condition associated whit headaches such as medication headaches, sinus headaches, ice cream headaches, headaches from high blood pressure, exercise or even sex. However, if frequent headaches trouble you, it is a good idea to keep a diary to try identifying what triggering them. Headaches are not supposed to be ignored so consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Your symptoms describe headache that can most likely be classified as a tension headache. This type of headache is known as primary headache, which means there is no underlying condition causing it. Most people experience a tension headache at some point in their life. Tension headaches are not life threatening and painkillers or lifestyle changes usually help. In case that OTC painkillers don't help, talk to your doctor who will give you a prescribed medication to reduce the pain. Tension headaches can be improved by stress management and relaxation techniques so be sure to ask your health care provider to give you more information about your condition.