Tension-type headaches (TTH) are one of the most common types of headaches, affecting millions of people.
These headaches can disrupt daily life and are often described as a dull, aching pain that feels like a tight band around the head.
Let’s break down what defines tension-type headaches and what might cause them.
Key Features of Tension-Type Headaches
Tension-type headaches are usually characterised by:
- Pain Quality: A constant, dull ache rather than a throbbing sensation.
- Location of Pain: The discomfort is typically felt across the forehead, temples, or the back of the head and neck.
- Intensity: Mild to moderate pain that can last from 30 minutes to several days.
- Symptoms: Unlike migraines, TTH typically do not cause nausea or sensitivity to light and sound.
TTH can be episodic (occurring fewer than 15 days a month) or chronic (15 or more days a month), which affects treatment options and quality of life.
Common Causes
While the exact cause of tension-type headaches isn’t fully understood, several factors are known to trigger them:
- Muscle Tension: Stress, poor posture, and prolonged sitting can lead to tightness in the neck and scalp muscles, increasing the risk of TTH.
- Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep quality is linked to more frequent tension-type headaches, as rest is essential for muscle relaxation and normal function.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can cause muscle tightness and headaches.
- Lifestyle Factors: High caffeine intake or skipping meals can also trigger headaches. While caffeine can help some people, too much can lead to withdrawal headaches.
Recent Research Insights
Recent studies have highlighted effective ways to manage tension-type headaches.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to help reduce headache frequency by teaching coping strategies for stress management.
Additionally, physical therapy focusing on posture and muscle relaxation can prevent TTH by addressing the underlying muscle tension.
Conclusion
Tension-type headaches are common and often caused by stress, poor posture, lack of sleep, and dehydration.
Understanding these features, including the location of pain, can help individuals take steps to manage and reduce the frequency of their headaches. With the right strategies, including therapy and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to find relief and improve quality of life.
Our experienced clinicians at Sydney Headache and Migraine Clinic would love to assist in your journey towards headache resolution, please reach out to us if you have any questions.
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