Tension headache is also known as stress headache or tension-type headache and is the most common type of headache. This type of headache results from physical and emotional stress and tension.

Types of tension headache:

Tension headaches are divided into two categories:

Episodic tension headaches: This type of headache lasts from 30 minutes to one week and the episodes are less than 180 times a year. In order to be diagnosed with an episodic tension headache, the individual must have experienced a minimum of 10 headache episodes previously. In this type of headache the pain is bilateral with mild to moderate intensity and the patient might suffer from increased sensitivity to light or sound but not both. These headaches are not accompanied by vomiting or nausea and do not disrupt normal activities.

Chronic tension headaches: These headaches occur more than 15 times a month and usually build up when a person is alone and in a state of extreme tension or stress.

Causes of tension headache:

Tension headaches are caused when the muscles at the nape of the neck contract, thereby restricting the flow of blood to the brain due to excessive stress.

Both internal stress and environmental stress can trigger these headaches.

Issues related to financial constraints, family, relationship and work can also cause stress headache.

Other causes include lack of sleep, prolonged working hours, muscular strain and sitting or sleeping in an odd posture.

Symptoms of Tension headache:

• Inability to sleep
• Fatigue
• Muscular strain
• Inability to concentrate
• Dizziness
• Increased sensitivity to light or sound
• Irritability

Remedies for tension headache:

Medications: You can temporarily relieve your headache by taking analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium.

Aromatherapy: Various essential oils also help treat headaches. Add a few drops of lavender oils and eucalyptus oils to a base oil and get it massage it on the temples.

Relaxation: Meditation and deep breathing exercises help relieve tension headaches.

Recreation: You must take out time for yourself and do something you like such as reading a book, listening music, dancing etc.

Massage the scalp with slightly warmed sesame oil. This relieves tension headache and induces sleep.