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Coiled spring illustrating tension headache pain

WHAT IS A TENSION HEADACHE?

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Tension-type headaches are your common, “everyday” headaches. Nearly everyone will have at least one tension-type headache at some point in their lives and it’s estimated that up to 80 percent of adults experience them on an occasional basis. While there’s no precise diagnosis for a tension-type headache, the sensation — a tight band being painfully stretched across your head — is all too familiar to many. Read on to learn more about the symptoms, possible causes and treatment.

Symptoms of a Tension Headache

Dull, aching head pain, stiff muscles and tightness in the neck, shoulders, scalp and jaws, are the main symptoms of tension headaches. They can cause mild to moderate pain but will not usually render you incapable of normal activity.

Doctors classify tension headaches as episodic or chronic; episodic headaches occur less than 15 times a month, while chronic headaches happen more frequently, and for a longer than three months. Either type can last anywhere from a half hour to a full, head-pounding week.

Symptoms of a Tension Headache

Dull, aching head pain, stiff muscles and tightness in the neck, shoulders, scalp and jaws, are the main symptoms of tension headaches. They can cause mild to moderate pain but will not usually render you incapable of normal activity.

Doctors classify tension headaches as episodic or chronic; episodic headaches occur less than 15 times a month, while chronic headaches happen more frequently, and for a longer than three months. Either type can last anywhere from a half hour to a full, head-pounding week.

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