Tension headache medical therapy
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Tension Headache Microchapters |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sabeeh Islam, MBBS[2]
Overview
Medical Therapy
Episodic tension-type headaches generally respond well to over-the-counter analgesics, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin. The effect of the analgesic is boosted if either caffeine (such as a cup of coffee) or a dose of the sedative antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl, 25mg) is taken at the same time. However, these medications should be avoided in cases of chronic tension-type headache, due to the risk of medication overuse headaches.
Chronic tension-type headaches are more difficult to treat. Some therapies that are suggested for chronic tension-type headaches include:
Pharmacological Therapy
Non-Pharmacological Therapy
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Cranial chiropractic
- Exercise such as swimming two to three times a week
- Heat pillow
- Massage
- Relaxation techniques like:
Avoiding Triggers
Tension headaches are exacerbated by states or activities that induce muscle tension, such as stress. Avoiding such states can lessen the frequency of tension headaches. Tension headaches can also be provoked by other conditions, such as an upper respiratory infection. Often the best treatment for a mild tension headache that does not impair a person's ability to function is simple endurance. Many tension headache sufferers receive relief from sleep. However, it is always best to see your physician for a full work-up of the headaches.
References
- ↑ Holroyd KA, O'Donnell FJ, Stensland M, Lipchik GL, Cordingley GE, Carlson BW. Management of chronic tension-type headache with tricyclic antidepressant medication, stress management therapy, and their combination: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2001 May 2;285(17):2208-15.
- ↑ Bendtsen L, Jensen R. Mirtazapine is effective in the prophylactic treatment of chronic tension-type headache. Neurology. 2004 May 25;62(10):1706-11.