Tension Headaches – Causes and Treatments

Until recently, most headaches were thought to be caused by stress or tension – resulting in the term “tension headache”.

Recent research, however, suggests that tension may be a factor, but the underlying causes are still unclear.

Some researchers believe that, as with migraines, the root cause is more likely to be the interaction of serotonin with nerve cells. Research involving anti-depressants and other drugs that alter the levels of this neurotransmitter has lent some credence to support this claim. But the evidence is still not clear and research continues.

Until the underlying causes are better known, most people with tension headaches will continue to use common treatments.  Tension headaches affect nearly everyone at some point in their life.  Both genders can expect to suffer from tension headaches, although women in general suffer from headaches more often than men.  People who suffer from chronic headaches may get several headaches per month.

Ordinary tension headaches usually last only a few hours and maybe less.  Altough they are not long lasting, they are not pleasant and can disrupt work and other activities.  The most common treatment is aspirin.  Unfortunately, aspirin is not the ideal treatment for everyone since it can aggravate the lining of the stomach.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen are other typical treatments for tension headaches.  Some products will also combine several ingredients. Excedrin, for example, contains aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine. Though acetaminophen rarely has major side effects, it may not be the best product for everyone. Ibuprofen can cause stomach distress for some headache sufferers.

Oftentimes, the best approach for headaches is to focus on prevention.  Changing your lifestyle can significantly alter the frequency, duration and severity of tension headaches.

Though muscle tension in the head, neck, back or face may not be a primary cause, it can certainly play a part in a headache. Focusing on correct posture, regular exercise and  healthy diet can help reduce tension headaches.

An easy lifestyle change is to modify your work habits by changing how you position yourself – this is especially beneficial for people who use computers for long periods.  Modifying the where the mouse and keyboard are located can reduce tension on the neck and back. If you sit with one foot raised on a part of the chair, changing feet from time to time helps keep the back from tensing.

Regular exercise is also a key preventative technique. A routine exercise regimen keeps muscles strong, less prone to spontaneous tensing and encourages good blood flow. All those reduce the frequency or severity of headaches.

Regular exercise will reduce and prevent stress.
Keeping tissues well oxygenated will keep headaches at bay. One of the primary treatments for cluster headaches, for example, is a few minutes breathing of pure oxygen. Though of a different type, similar mechanisms may be at work in tension headaches.

A proper diet works together with regular exercise to keep your body in proper form. A healthy diet will lay a foundation for strong muscles and modest amounts of body fat.
It also supplies all the nutrients that, when present in too low amounts, can lead to tension headaches. Proper fluid and mineral levels also play a vital role in headaches.

If you suffer from more debilitating forms of headaches, then you might need stronger treatmenets. Medications, like triptans, are used to contril migraine headaches. But some research suggests that tension headaches may actually be a weaker form of a migraine headached. Before taking any prescription medication consult a doctor and ask about all available treatment methods.