Tension Headache

Question 1

What is a tension headache?

Answer 1

most common type of headache
'normal, everyday headache'. 
Can be divided into: 
Episodic: < 15 days per month  
Chronic: > 15 days per month

Question 2

List 8 triggers of tension headache

Answer 2

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

Question 3

What type of headache is a tension headache?

Answer 3

Primary headaches (i.e. have no underlying cause)

Question 4

Summarise the epidemiology of tension headache

Answer 4

MOST COMMON type of headache
F > M
Most common in YOUNG ADULTS
Most people will experience a tension headache at some point in their lives

Question 5

Describe a tension headache

Answer 5

Mild-moderate in severity  
Pressure/ tightness around head "tight band"
Bilateral 
Often relationship with neck  
Can be disabling for a few hours but does not have specific associated sx 
Gradual onset 
Variable duration  
Usually responsive to OTC medication

Question 6

What is found on examination of a patient with tension headache?

Answer 6

Examination is usually NORMAL

Question 7

What investigations should be performed for tension headache?

Answer 7

NO investigations necessary

Question 8

What is the management plan for tension headaches?

Answer 8

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)
TCA’s may be considered in frequently recurrent episodic/ chronic tension headaches

Question 9

What are the complications of tension headaches?

Answer 9

NONE

Question 10

What is the prognosis of tension headaches?

Answer 10

GOOD
Not very severe or disabling
Recurs