chronic tension headache

Other doctors suggest focusing on a healthy balanced diet, with a good mixture of slow-release energy foods (taken in small regularly spaced meals) and a low intake of refined sugars.Many people with frequent headaches say that they have fewer headaches if they Physiotherapy may help chronic tension headaches through teaching relaxation techniques and breathing exercises.

Treatment can be resumed if headaches return (recur). Experts used to think tension headaches stemmed from muscle contractions in the face, neck and scalp, perhaps as a result of heightened emotions, tension or stress.

Also note anything that may have caused it. To sum­ma­rize the symp­toms: 1. However, tension headaches can also be … I am a 20 year old male, thin build. Frequent episodic tension headaches may become chronic.This type of tension headache lasts hours and may be continuous. Consider these: Try to identify and avoid situations that cause tension or stress. A medicine called amitriptyline may help to prevent the headaches from occurring.Chronic tension headache is a condition where you have a tension headache on at least 15 days every month for at least three months.This can be tiring and depressing.

Painkillers. In one study, two thirds of people diagnosed with chronic tension headache had had daily or near daily headache for an average of seven years before consulting a doctor. Patient is a UK registered trade mark.By using this site you agree to our use of cookies. Don’t smoke. Eat regular meals. Some people don't like bright lights or loud noises, and don't feel like eating much when they have a tension headache.

These occur one or two times per month on average. Other causes reported by patients include stress, tiredness, hunger and eye strain. Frequent episodic tension headaches occur less than 15 days a month for at least three months. They may be due to tension in the muscles at the back of the head and neck, but it is now clear that this is not always the cause. The list of foods which can be triggers in some people includes caffeinated drinks, chocolate, cheese and alcohol.

The issue is that I feel drunk, spacey, loopy, high...The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. However, it is possible that a proportion of these patients actually have developed medication-overuse headaches (medication-induced headaches) as a result of their tension headaches. Occasionally, tension headaches can be caused by poor vision, particularly if reading in low light for long periods. Therefore, it can be difficult to be certain which is their main problem.Chronic means persistent; it does not mean severe. Because of the persistent nature of the headaches, however, this condition is often quite disabling and distressing, and most patients take preventative medication.This condition tends to develop in people who start off with having tension headaches with increasing frequency, until they occur on most days. Note when, where, and how bad each headache is, and how long each headache lasts.

In June 2015, I started to feel in­ter­mit­tently dizzy. Other medicines are sometimes tried if amitriptyline is not suitable or does not help. It may also help through detecting and changing physical habits which may be contributing to the headaches.

It is slow to take effect - the low starting dose is to allow you to tolerate the medicine more easily.

The cause of chronic tension headache is often not clear. Get enough sleep. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. Managing a tension headache is often a balance between fostering healthy habits, finding effect…