Tension headaches produce dull pain or pressure, tightness around the head, pain around the head or pain that expands to the temples, scalp or back of the neck, according to the National Institutes of Health. Muscle tightness, which often stems from other conditions, may accompany the headaches. Tension headaches are the most common form of headaches and can last from a half hour to several days.
Chemical Changes
Brain chemicals can be altered to cause tension headaches, according to the Mayo Clinic. Serotonin, endorphins and other chemicals may open pain pathways to the brain and prevent the brain from stopping pain. Serotonin affects emotional states and endorphins help get rid of pain sensations. It is possible these chemicals and others lose their control and leave people vulnerable to headaches, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Awkward Positions
Poor posture, working in awkward positions or holding one position over a long period of time, especially the head, may lead to tension headaches. Such activities include sitting and working at a computer, working intensely with the hands or using a microscope, the National Institutes of Health reports. Sleeping in the same position or with the neck in an abnormal position and sleeping in a cold room can induce tension headaches.
Health Triggers
Stress, anxiety and depression can result in tension headaches. The neck and scalp muscles may become tense or contract in response to stressful conditions and moods. Sometimes tense situations and anxiety can cause someone to clench or grind the teeth, which is known to lead to tension headaches, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fatigue, overexertion or eye strain are physical stresses that cause tension headaches. Certain foods, food additives or skipping meals may trigger headaches for some people. Sinus problems may lead to headaches. Sinus and tension headaches often occur together. Tension headaches often occur in people who suffer migraines. The headaches may happen when someone has a cold or flu. Certain head injuries also result in tension headaches.
Drugs
Some medications, including headache medications, can cause rebound headaches, especially if a person takes pain medication more than three days a week on a regular basis, the National Institutes of Health says. Chronic headaches can result from over-treatment or under-treatment of a headache. Alcohol use can result in tension headaches, whether the alcohol is in medication or a person is overindulging in alcoholic drinks. Caffeine can cause tension headaches when it is consumed too much or when withdrawing from coffee or other caffeinated drinks.
