Tension Headache

Question 1

Define Tension Headache?

Answer 1

The most common type of headache, which is considered a ‘normal. everyday headache’

Question 2

How can Tension Headache be divided?

Answer 2

Episodic - occurs on < 15 days per month

Chronic - occurs on > 15 days per month

Question 3

What are some of the triggers of Tension Headaches?

Answer 3

Stress/anxiety 
Squinting 
Poor posture 
Fatigue 
Dehydration
Missing meals 
Bright sunlight 
Noise

Question 4

What is the aetiology of Tension Headaches?

Answer 4

Most common type of headache
More common in women
Most common in young adults
Most people will experience a Tension Headaches at some point in their lives

Question 5

What are the presenting symptoms and signs of Tension Headaches?

Answer 5

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 doesn’t have specifc associated symptoms (unlike migraines)
Gradual onset
Variable duration
Usually responsive to over-the-counter medication
Examination is usually normal

Question 6

What is the management plan for Episodic Tension Headaches?

Answer 6

Reassurance
Address triggers
Advice on avoiding medications that can cause medication-induced headache (e.g. opiods)
Simple analgesia (e.g. ibuprofen, paracetamol, aspirin)
Tricyclic antidepressants may be considerd in frequently recurrent episodic tension headaches or chronic Tension Headaches

Question 7

What is the prognosis for patients with Tension Headaches?

Answer 7

GOOD
Not very severe or disabling
Recurs