[[File:Tension headache.jpg|thumb||300px|left|Most of all the pain the patient feels is in this area]]Tension headaches are also known as tension-type headaches, stress headaches, or muscle tension headaches. Tension headaches often cause pain on both sides of the head that ranges from mild to moderate. It is not often accompanied by nausea. The duration of the pain can range from 30 minutes to a few hours. Tension headaches can recur for several days. You might be diagnosed with chronic tension headaches if you experience tension headaches more than 15 times a month for at least three consecutive months. Tension headaches are most common among adolescents and young adults. They occur more frequently in women than in men.<br>See also : [[Headache]]
==Symptoms==
The symptoms of tension headaches include:
* Stay hydrated : As mentioned earlier, drinking lots of fluids is important to maintaining regular brain function and preventing headaches. The recommended daily intake of water for an adult is generally between four to six glasses. However, it can be easy for us to forget we need to drink some water because we might not sense our thirst well when we age. Placing a beaker of water next to your laptop as you work, for example, can be a good way of reminding yourself to get enough water throughout the day.
* Massage : A massage helps relieve muscle tension and reduce stress. It is most beneficial for the muscles in the back of your head, neck, and shoulders. As pressure is applied to your muscles and soft tissues by a massage therapist, you will experience benefits such as headache relief and prevention.
* Cold or hot compresses :
**Using a cold or hot compress can help reduce the pain of your tension headache. Use an ice pack, wrapped ice, or frozen vegetables for a cold compress, but use a cloth to protect your skin. Put the compress on your head, temples, or neck to decrease inflammation, reduce nerve conduction, and constrict blood vessels.
**For a hot compress, use a heating pad, a hot-water bottle, or a hot towel. A hot bath or shower will have the same effect, so consider that, as well. Since tension headaches are often stress-induced, the heat will relax your muscles and offer relief.
==Warnings==
In most cases tension headaches are mild conditions that resolve on their own and do not require medical intervention. However, you should see a doctor promptly for your headaches if you have any of the following:
*Headaches that are steadily becoming more and more painful
*Headaches that increase with coughing or with movement
*Headaches accompanied by a high fever and/or vomiting
*Headaches when you have cancer and/or an impaired immune system
[[Category:Diseases]]