Tension headache

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In medicine, tension headache, also called tension-type headache, stress headache or idiopathic headache, is a "common primary headache disorder, characterized by a dull, non-pulsatile, diffuse, band-like (or vice-like) pain of mild to moderate intensity in the head; scalp; or neck. the subtypes are classified by frequency and severity of symptoms. there is no clear cause even though it has been associated with muscle contraction and stress.[1][2]

Diagnosis

Criteria for diagnosis are available.[2][3]

Prevention

It is not clear whether any medications taken daily can prevent tension headaches.[4]

References

  1. Anonymous (2024), Tension headache (English). Medical Subject Headings. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
  2. 2.0 2.1 International Headache Society. IHS Classification ICHD-II Tension-type headache
  3. Ad Hoc Committee on the Classification of Headache of the National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Blindness. Classification of headache. JAMA (1962) 179:717–8
  4. Verhagen AP, Damen L, Berger MY, Passchier J, Koes BW (2010). "Lack of benefit for prophylactic drugs of tension-type headache in adults: a systematic review.". Fam Pract 27 (2): 151-65. DOI:10.1093/fampra/cmp089. PMID 20028727. Research Blogging.