Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. Most people get them from time to time. They're usually not serious and you can often treat them yourself at home.

What do tension headaches feel like?

A tension headache typically causes:

• Pain on both sides of your head, face or neck
• A feeling like something is pressing down on your head
• A feeling like something tight is wrapped around your head
• The painful area may feel tender when you touch it

The pain usually doesn't stop you from doing your normal daily activities. These headaches can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days.

What causes tension headaches?

Common triggers include:

• Stress - worrying about work, family or money
• Sleep problems - not getting enough sleep or poor quality sleep
• Too much caffeine - from tea, coffee, energy drinks or cola
• Taking too many painkillers - using headache tablets too often can actually cause more headaches

The good news is that tension headaches aren't usually a sign of anything serious wrong with your health.

How to treat tension headaches yourself

What you can do:

• Take painkillers like paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen (paracetamol is safest if you're pregnant, and children under 16 shouldn't take aspirin)
• Try relaxing activities like gentle exercise, yoga or massage
• Use a low, firm pillow when sleeping
• Apply heat or cold packs to your neck if that area hurts too
• Look at your sleep habits - try to get regular, good quality sleep

What to avoid:

• Don't drink too much tea, coffee, energy drinks or cola - the caffeine can make headaches worse
• Don't take painkillers every day or too often, as this can cause more headaches

When to speak to your pharmacist

Your local pharmacist can help by advising you on:

• Which painkiller is best for you
• Safe medicines if you're pregnant
• Sleep aids if poor sleep might be causing your headaches

When to speak to your GP

See your GP if:

• You get headaches several times a week
• Your headaches are severe
• Painkillers and relaxation don't help
• You have throbbing pain at the front or on one side of your head
• You feel sick, vomit, or find light and noise painful

These symptoms might suggest a different type of headache, like a migraine.

When to get urgent help

Call 111 or get an urgent GP appointment if you have a severe headache with:

• Jaw pain when eating
• Blurred or double vision
• A sore scalp
• Numbness or weakness in your arms or legs

Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you have:

• A head injury
• A sudden, extremely painful headache
• Problems speaking or remembering things
• Loss of vision
• Feel drowsy or confused
• A very high temperature with neck stiffness

Remember

Most tension headaches get better with simple self-care. However, if you're worried about your headaches or they're affecting your daily life, don't hesitate to speak to your GP. They can help you find the right treatment and rule out other causes.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.