Tension Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
The cause of the ordinary headache was long thought to be tension, which is why they have always been known as tension headaches. Recent discoveries indicate that the causes are a little more involved than that.
Serotonin interacting with nerve cells is more likely the case with tension headaches, just like with migraines. This is due to research results from using drugs that alter the levels of serotonin. Even at that, researchers continue to look for answers.
Until a clear cause is determined, tension headache sufferers will have to make due with the common treatments that are available. Even though everyone suffers from tension headaches from time to time, women are more prone to this problem than men. For some, it's a chronic problem. This means they get several of these headaches every month.
Although these headaches are less intense than migraines, and last only for a couple of hours, they can still have an affect on your everyday life. Aspirin has been an effective treatment for many years, although it does have some side effects. Aspirin has been known to damage the lining of the stomach.
Other common over-the-counter treatments include acetaminophen and ibuprofen. One of the more popular brands is Excedrin, which contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. Acetaminophen is relatively safe, but not everyone benefits from this drug. Ibuprofen is another effective option, but it has been known to cause stomach problems for some.
There is no cure for tension headaches, but there are things you can do to prevent them. Many times it's as simple as changing certain lifestyle choices.
Muscle tension in the head, neck, back and face can contribute to the severity of tension headaches, even though they may not be the actual cause. You can increase your odds of avoiding tension headaches by eating right, exercising and making posture changes.
If long hours are spent working at a computer, it is recommended that you change positions periodically to keep your muscles loose. Stress on the neck and back can be reduced by changing the position of the mouse and keyboard. Move your legs and feet around once in a while as well to avoid stress on your muscles.
Maintain strong muscles and good blood flow through regular exercise. This too can reduce the risk of getting headaches.
Exercise is also a great way to reduce stress. Headaches are less likely when tissue is well oxygenated. Pure oxygen is sometimes used to treat cluster headaches. Even though they are different types of headaches, this treatment option can work for both.
You can further maintain a healthy body by eating a healthy diet. Even without exercise, a good diet goes a long way in helping maintain a strong and healthy body. Tension headaches are sometimes caused by deficiencies in certain nutrients that a healthy diet will provide. Fluid and mineral levels are also responsible for the occurrence of headaches.
Some severe cases require medical attention or prescription drugs. Triptans are used to treat the affects of migraines. This is helpful to know since many believe that tension headaches are a mild form of migraine. The best option is to sit down with your physician and discuss the possible causes and treatment options for your problem.
Introduction to Headaches
Causes of Headaches
Common Headache Symptoms
Who is At Risk of Suffering from Headaches?
Diagnosing Headaches
Headaches Guide and Info
Migraine Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Sinus Headaches Causes and Treatments
Cluster Headaches Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
Seeking Medical Advice for Headaches
Pregnancy Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Headaches Treatment and Medication
How to Control Headaches Symptoms
Headaches Preventive Medications and Treatments
Headaches Treatment - Surgery vs Drugs
Ergots and Midrin for Migraines Treatment
Acetaminophen – Headache Medication and Treatment
Aspirin - Headache Medication and Treatment
Brand Name vs Generic Medication – Headache Treatments
Ibuprofen Headache Medication and Treatment
Triptans Migraines Treatment and Medication
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