Tension-Type Headaches

A tension-type headache is a particular kind of headache that feels like a band tightening around your head.

• Tension-type headaches are common and not dangerous

• The pain isn't usually severe

• Jaw problems, neck pain, or eyestrain can cause tension-type headaches

• Stress may cause tension-type headaches

Doctors don’t understand exactly why tension-type headaches happen, but you may get them if you have:

• Pain in other parts of your head and neck

• Problems with sleep

• Lots of stress

• Problems with your jaw (such as temporomandibular joint disorder)

• Eye strain—for example, from spending lots of time looking at a computer screen

You have:

• Pain in your head that feels like a band tightening around your head

• Pain that is mild or moderate, not severe—the pain doesn’t usually stop you from your daily tasks

Tension-type headaches are different from migraines. With a tension-type headache:

• Your pain doesn’t get worse with light, sounds, smells, or when you move around

• Your headache doesn’t make you feel sick or throw up

There are 2 types of tension-type headaches, based on how often they happen:

• Episodic headaches happen less than 15 days a month

• Chronic (long-lasting) headaches happen 15 or more days a month

If you have episodic tension-type headaches, your headache may:

• Start several hours after waking up and get worse later in the day

• Last 30 minutes to several days

If you have chronic tension-type headaches, your headache may:

• Be almost always present, and get better and worse throughout the day

• Get worse each day

• Doctors suspect tension-type headaches based on your symptoms and an exam

• They’ll ask you questions about what causes your headaches

• Doctors may do other tests, such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of your head, to make sure another health problem isn’t causing your headaches

Certain warning signs suggest your headache is not an ordinary tension-type headache. See a doctor right away for a headache if you have:

• Changes in your vision, weakness, drowsiness, confusion, loss of balance, or trouble speaking

• A fever and stiff neck

• A sudden, very severe headache that came on like a thunderclap

• Tenderness at your temple (as when combing hair) or jaw pain when chewing

• Cancer, AIDS, or a weak immune system

• A worsening headache

• Red eyes and halos seen around lights

Doctors may tell you to:

• Massage your head and neck

• Do activities to help you relax and lower stress

If you have chronic tension-type headaches, doctors may give you medicine. Sometimes medicines for migraines can help treat tension-type headaches too.