Tension headache is one of the most common headache disorders in the population. It is characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure in the head, often described as feeling like wearing a tight helmet. This type of headache can be triggered by various factors, and its impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it can be significant.
Causes of the headache tension headache
The exact causes of tension headache are not completely clear, but muscle tension is believed to play an important role in its origin. Some factors that can trigger this type of headache are:
Stress
Chronic emotional stress can cause muscle tension in the head, neck and shoulders, which in turn It can sometimes trigger episodes of tension headaches. Situations of work, family or personal tension can contribute to the development of this disorder.
Improper posture
Maintaining poor posture for long periods of time can put pressure on the neck muscles and the head, which can trigger episodes of tension headaches. This is a common problem in people who work long hours in front of the computer or who have jobs that require standing for a long time.
Sleep problems
Lack of sleep or Poor quality can contribute to the development of tension headaches. Lack of adequate rest can increase pain sensitivity and muscle tension, which can trigger headache episodes.
Environmental factors
Exposure to triggering environmental stimuli, such as Strong smells, bright lights or intense noises can trigger tension headaches in some people who are sensitive to these factors.
Symptoms of tension headache
Symptoms of tension headache can vary in intensity and duration, and usually manifest as follows:
Constant or intermittent pain
The pain associated with tension headache is commonly described as pressure or compression in the head, and is usually be of mild to moderate intensity. It can be constant or intermittent, and usually affects both sides of the head.
Neck and shoulder pain
The muscle tension that accompanies a tension headache can extend to the neck. and shoulders, causing additional discomfort in these areas of the body.
Sensitivity to light and noise
Some people who suffer from tension headaches may become more sensitive to sensory stimuli such as bright light or loud noises during a headache episode.
Irritability and difficulty concentrating
Tension headache episodes can affect mood and cognitive performance, causing irritability, difficulty concentrating and memory problems.
Diagnosis of tension headache
The diagnosis of tension headache is based mainly on the clinical history and the description of the symptoms by part of the patient. It is important to rule out other possible causes of headache, such as migraine or other neurological disorders, before confirming the diagnosis of tension headache. In some cases, additional tests, such as imaging studies or laboratory tests, may be necessary to rule out other pathologies.
Treatment of tension headache
Treatment of tension headache has The objective is to relieve acute pain, prevent recurrence of episodes and improve the patient's quality of life. Some strategies that may be useful in managing this disorder are:
Self-care measures
Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing, can help reduce muscle tension and stress, common triggers of tension headaches. Maintaining proper posture and avoiding spending long periods of time in the same position can also be beneficial.
Physical therapies
Physiotherapy, manual therapy, and therapeutic massage can be helpful for relieve muscle tension in the neck and head, reducing the intensity and frequency of tension headache episodes.
Medication
In some cases, the doctor may prescribe medication to relieve the acute pain of tension headache, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In cases of chronic pain, specific pharmacological treatments may be necessary.
Complementary therapies
Some complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, acupressure or herbal medicine, may be beneficial in the treatment of chronic pain. tension headache in some patients. It is important to consult with a health professional before starting any complementary treatment.
Prevention of tension headache
In addition to treating acute episodes, it is important to take preventive measures to reduce the frequency and severity of tension headache episodes. Some recommendations to prevent this type of headache are:
Stress management
Learning stress management techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness or practicing relaxing activities, can Help prevent the onset of tension headaches. Identifying and avoiding stressful situations can also be beneficial.
Adequate rest
Ensuring adequate and restful sleep is essential to prevent tension headaches. Maintaining regular sleep schedules, creating an environment conducive to rest, and adopting healthy sleep habits can help reduce the incidence of this disorder.
Regular exercise
Perform regular exercise It can help reduce muscle tension and improve the stress response, factors that can trigger tension headaches. It is recommended to choose physical activities that are appropriate for each person and that can be incorporated regularly into the daily routine.
Balanced diet
Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet can help prevent tension headache. Avoiding excessive consumption of caffeine, alcohol and processed foods, as well as staying hydrated, are important recommendations in the prevention of this disorder.
Conclusion
Tension headache is a common disorder that It can affect the quality of life of those who suffer from it. While its exact causes are not entirely clear, factors such as stress, poor posture, and sleep problems can play an important role in its development. The diagnosis of tension headache is based on the clinical history and the patient's description of symptoms, and its treatment includes self-care measures, physical therapies, medication and, in some cases, complementary therapies. Taking preventative measures, such as stress management, adequate rest, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, can help reduce the frequency and severity of tension headache episodes. Consulting with a health professional in the presence of persistent or recurrent headache is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.