
The most common form of headache is a pressure headache (also called a tension headache), which causes pressure or tightness on both sides of the head.
There are two main types of pressure headaches:
- Episodic
- Chronic
- Daily or continuous headache
- Less common than episodic headaches
- Pain intensity can vary
- Antidepressants may be used to treat chronic pressure headaches
Treatment to get rid of a pressure headache may include:
- Non-medical treatments
- Rest
- Ice
- Heat
- Massage
- Biofeedback
- Pain relievers
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Aspirin
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Pain relievers that contain caffeine may be most effective
- Antidepressants such as amitriptyline (for chronic pressure headaches)
What Are Symptoms of Pressure Headaches?
Pressure headaches (tension headaches) usually cause mild to moderate pain and pressure in the forehead, temples, or the back of head and/or neck.
Symptoms of pressure headaches include head pain that:
- Is dull, aching, and not throbbing
- Affects both sides of the head
- Feels like a “vice-like” tightening band-like sensation around the neck and/or head
- Is not usually severe
Other symptoms that may accompany a chronic pressure headache include:
- Stiff muscles between the head and neck
- Fatigue
- Sleep problems
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Loss of concentration
What Causes Pressure Headaches?
Pressure headaches (tension headaches) may be caused by:
How Are Pressure Headaches Diagnosed?
The cause of pressure headaches (tension headaches) is diagnosed with a patient history, a physical exam, and tests such as:
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis
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https://www.uptodate.com/contents/tension-type-headache-in-adults-acute-treatment?search=headache%20treatment%27&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1
https://headaches.org/2007/10/25/tension-type-headache/