Tension-Type Headache
Characteristics of Symptoms
A tension-type headache is a headache that feels like your whole head is being tightened by a belt. Pain may also occur in the back of the head. It is considered the most common type of headache.
Tension-type headaches can be episodic or chronic.
The pain is mild to moderate and is not accompanied by nausea or vomiting. (Migraines are generally considered to be more painful.)
The pain is not aggravated by physical activity, bright light, loud noises, or specific odors.
It can be triggered by sleep disorders, temporomandibular joint disorders, neck and shoulder stiffness/pain, eye strain, and mental stress.
Episodic headaches occur 15 days or less per month, with a duration ranging from 30 minutes to several days. The headache begins a few hours after waking up and worsens over time. Headaches during sleep are rare.
Chronic headaches occur 15 days or more per month, and the pain lasts all day. The pain tends to become more intense as the frequency increases.
Causes of Tension-Type Headaches
A major cause is physical and mental stress. For example, if you continue to keep your head down for a long time, such as during desk work, the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and head become tense, leading to poor blood flow. This causes the muscles to become fatigued and stiff, which stimulates the nerves and results in pain.
It can also be triggered by unnatural postures, such as using an unsuitable pillow while sleeping, specific postures like carrying a shoulder bag, or the body becoming stiff and tense due to cold. The same applies when experiencing mental stress. However, the exact mechanism is not yet fully understood.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
Tension-type headaches are thought to be closely related to physical and mental stress. Improving blood flow and relieving muscle and mental tension through exercise therapy, bathing, relaxation, acupuncture, and massage can lead to headache improvement.
If these methods do not lead to improvement, pharmacological therapy is considered.
Pharmacological Therapy
Over-the-counter medications are effective, but there is a risk of developing medication-overuse headaches if they are taken continuously. Caution is required, especially in the case of chronic headaches, as there is a high possibility of taking them every day. Types of medication include Loxonin, acetaminophen, etc.
For chronic tension-type headaches, antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and muscle relaxants may be effective.
Prevention of Tension-Type Headaches
Engage in moderate exercise to loosen muscles.
If you often sit for long periods, take frequent breaks, stand up and move around, or stretch your back occasionally to loosen your muscles.
Be careful not to maintain the same posture for a long time.
Soak in a bath for a long time.
Take time to relax.
Massage or stretch your neck and shoulders
Receive acupuncture, moxibustion, or massage therapy
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