Tension Headache. The Worst Headache.

Between 30% and 80% of Americans suffer from tension headaches. At the same time, 3% of the population suffers from this type of headache at least once a day. Women are twice as likely to suffer from tension headaches more often than men, explains by Cleveland Clinic.

What causes these headaches?

There is no single cause but several. While they are not inherited, in some people associated with the tension in the muscles of the back of the neck and scalp. This tension can become serious if the person does not get enough rest, with bad posture and emotional or mental stress, including depression.
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So common and difficult to treat

"Unfortunately, tension headaches are among the most neglected pains and difficult to treat," said by the head of the Medical Center of the University of Maryland. However, although very painful, "they are rarely a sign of a more serious disease."

No change position, an error

Stay long in one position, reading, using the computer or playing video games can cause this type of headache. Usually, the pain starts in the back of the head and moves forward. At the end, you can even include the neck, scalp and head.

other triggers

physical or emotional stress, too much caffeine or alcohol, colds, flu or sinusitis, bruxism or teeth grinding, eye pressure, smoking, fatigue or overexertion.

How to recognize a tension headache?

It is a different head pain: the feeling is a lot of pressure, like a tight band around the head in generalized form (not a single point). It may be worse on the scalp, temple or back of the neck and shoulders, listed by the National Library of Medicine.

How long can its last?

Tension headaches can occur as an isolated or recurrently made up every day. The duration can range from 30 minutes to extend for seven days. If where the person is no noise or glare, it could become even more marked.

Can cause nausea?

These types of headaches are not known for causing stomach upsets such as nausea or vomiting. Yes, however, it could occur with difficulty sleeping.

Changes that can improve

A combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques and some traditional or alternative therapies may reduce the frequency or intensity of these headaches. People who suffer 15 or more days per month for several months, are already considered chronic patients

How to relieve the pain?

Unless either chronic pain, doctors advise serves to identify each person to feel better: a shower or hot or cold bath, rest in a quiet room and put a cold cloth on your head, are some examples. If this does not relieve, surely the doctor will tell you some medication.

What medications do you take?

Pound selling drugs are generally effective. Although they should not be taken for several days in a row and respect the recommended dosage on the package. This is critical because all these drugs have side effects, warns by the Medical Center of the University of Maryland.

Adverse effects to account

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, acetaminophen) can cause liver damage if used in high doses or for prolonged periods. Aspirin can cause stomach upset and bleeding. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can cause upset stomach and bleeding; and increase the risk of heart problems

Prescription Drugs

When tension headache is not sporadic, the doctor may prescribe a drug prescription. Usually, the first choice is amitriptyline or another antidepressant. "Antidepressants have analgesic action, which can provide relief to headache sufferers," says the National Headache Foundation. Especially when having sleep problem

Keeping a headache diary

To prevent tension headaches, the National Headache Foundation recommends keeping a journal to record essential data to identify the factors and situations that triggers them. This will help the doctor to indicate the most appropriate treatment.