Tension Headache Flashcards
1
Q
Define
A
DEFINITION: the most common type of headache, which is considered a ‘normal, everyday headache’.
Can be divided into:
- Episodic - occurs on < 15 days per month
- Chronic - occurs on > 15 days per month
2
Q
Causes
A
The exact cause is unclear
There are well-known triggers:
- Stress/anxiety
- Squinting
- Poor posture
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
- Missing meals
- Bright sunlight
- Noise
They are primary headaches (i.e. they have no underlying cause)
3
Q
Epidemiology
A
MOST COMMON type of headache
More common in WOMEN
Most common in YOUNG ADULTS
Most people will experience a tension headache at some point in their lives
4
Q
Symptoms
A
- Mild-moderate in severity
- Pressure/tightness around the head like a tight band
- Pain tends to be bilateral
- Often a relationship with the neck
- Can be disabling for a few hours but does not have specific associated symptoms (unlike migraines)
- Gradual onset
- Variable duration
- Usually responsive to over-the-counter medication
IMPORTANT: check for possible triggers when taking history (e.g. stress)
Examination is usually NORMAL
5
Q
Investigations
A
NO investigations necessary
6
Q
Management
A
Episodic Tension Headaches
- Reassurance
- Address triggers (e.g. stress, anxiety)
- Advice on avoiding medications that can cause medication-induced headaches (e.g. opioids)
- Simple analgesia (e.g. ibuprofen, paracetamol, aspirin)
- Tricyclic antidepressants may be considered in frequently recurrent episodic tension headaches or chronic tension headaches
7
Q
Complications
A
NONE
8
Q
Prognosis
A
GOOD
Not very severe or disabling
Recurs
