Tension headache history and symptoms
Tension Headache Microchapters |
Diagnosis |
---|
Treatment |
Case Studies |
Tension headache history and symptoms On the Web |
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Tension headache history and symptoms |
Risk calculators and risk factors for Tension headache history and symptoms |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Tension-type headache pain is often described as a constant pressure, as if the head were being squeezed in a vise. The pain is frequently bilateral which means it is present on both sides of the head at once. Tension-type headache pain is typically mild to moderate, but may be severe. In contrast to migraine, the pain does not increase during exercise.
History and Symptoms
- Tension headache is a featureless headache and typically presents as bilateral, mild to moderate intensity, nonthrobbing headache without any associated features such as nausea or vomiting.
- The headache pain may be described as:
- Dull, pressure-like (not throbbing)
- A tight band or vise on the head
- All over the head
- Worse in the scalp, temples, or back of the neck, and possibly in the shoulders
- The pain may occur as an isolated event, constantly, or daily.
- People with tension headaches tend to try to relieve pain by massaging their scalp, temples, or the bottom of the neck.