Headache, tension-type

A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head or neck, and is an extremely common symptom.

Headaches can either be:

• Primary headaches, which are not caused by an underlying condition. They can be a symptom of stress, squinting or poor posture, for example. Examples of primary headaches are tension-type headaches, cluster headaches and migraines.
• Secondary headaches, which are caused by an underlying condition such as meningitis or a brain tumour.

These pages will focus on tension-type headache, which is the most common type of primary headache.

What are tension-type headaches?

Tension-type headaches are felt as a constant ache that affects both sides of the head. There is also tightening of the neck muscles and a feeling of pressure behind the eyes (see Symptoms).

Tension-type headaches are more frequent in women than men.

The headaches usually last for one to six hours, but some people may have more persistent headaches that last for several days.

How common are they?

Tension-type headaches affect over 40% of the UK population at any one time.

Many people have one or two tension-type headaches every month. Sometimes they develop more frequently, typically during times of stress.

Approximately 3% of people have a tension-type headache on most days. When this happens, the headaches are called chronic tension-type headaches.

Outlook

Tension-type headaches, like most primary headaches, are not life threatening and are usually relieved by medicines and/or changes in lifestyle (see Treatment).