Tension headaches are one of the most common types of head pain, according to MayoClinic.com. They occur most often in middle-aged women, but people of all ages and both genders experience tension headaches. Tension headaches are categorized by their frequency--episodic or chronic. Both types cause pain and muscle contractions in the head and neck, but the severity differs among individuals. There is no known cause for tension headaches, but they seem to be related to stress, anxiety and depression.
Muscle Contractions
Tension headaches often involve muscle contractions and tenderness in the head, shoulders and neck, according to the National Headache Foundation. Activities that keep the head in one position for long periods of time, such as typing or sleeping in an awkward position, can trigger a tension headache. Jaw clenching, teeth grinding, poor posture, stress and overexertion may also cause a tension headache. Massaging the affected areas may help to alleviate the symptoms. However, a headache with a stiff neck, confusion, fever, weakness, seizures or difficulty speaking are signs of a serious problem that needs immediate medical attention, according to MayoClinic.com.
Pain
The pain of a tension headache is typically dull and aching, according to the National Headache Foundation. Patients often describe it as a tight band of pain around the head, notes MayoClinic.com. The level of pain is mild to moderate and can last from 30 minutes to a week. Unlike a migraine headache, the pain from a tension headache does not throb or pulsate, increase with physical activity or cause nausea and vomiting.
Frequency
Tension headaches are categorized by how often they occur, according to the National Headache Foundation. Episodic tension headaches, also called stress headaches, often start after an argument or other stressful event. Episodic tension headaches, as the name suggests, do not occur regularly and can be treated successfully with over-the-counter medication. Chronic tension headaches, on the other hand, occur at least 15 times a month for a period of at least three months, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients with chronic tension headaches may require prescription medications to treat or prevent attacks.
Light Sensitivity
Some patients with tension headaches are sensitive to sounds or light, according to MayoClinic.com, but most are not. In contrast to migraine headaches, tension headaches do not cause visual disturbances such as flashing lights or diminished vision.
Emotional Factors
Both types of tension headache may be related to emotional triggers, according to the National Headache Foundation. Episodic tension headaches are often triggered by a temporary stressful situation that causes the patient to become anxious, angry or fatigued. Sufferers of chronic tension headaches often complain of symptoms related to ongoing anxiety or depression, including sleep disturbances, lack of concentration, chronic fatigue, loss of appetite or feelings of guilt. Treatment for chronic symptoms may include antidepressants, biofeedback and counseling.
