What is the pathophysiology of tension-type headache?

Increased excitability of the central nervous system generated by repetitive and sustained pericranial myofascial input may be responsible for the transformation of episodic tension-type headache into the chronic form.

What are the diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache?

Diagnostic Criteria for Tension-Type, Chronic Tension-Type, and Chronic Headache. At least two of the following pain characteristics: Pressing or tightening (nonpulsating) quality. Mild to moderate intensity (nonprohibitive)

How long does a tension-type headache last?

A tension-type headache may last for 30 minutes or (less commonly) months. In general, episodic tension headache symptoms tend to come on slowly and end sooner. They often happen in the middle of the day. Episodic headaches usually don’t last longer than a week.

Is it normal to get tension headaches everyday?

About 3% have chronic daily tension headaches. Women are twice as likely to get them as men. Most people with episodic tension headaches have them no more than once or twice a month, but they can happen more often. Many people with the chronic type have usually had them for more than 60 to 90 days.

How do you classify headaches?

Like its predecessor, the second edition of the IHS classification separates headache into primary and secondary disorders. The four categories of primary headaches include migraine, tension-type headache, cluster headache and other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, and other primary headaches.

What medicine is best for a tension headache?

What OTC and prescription medications treat pain and manage tension headaches? Many people treat tension headache on their own, using OTC (over-the-counter) medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), or combination medications containing acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine (Excedrin).

How do you treat chronic tension headaches?

What are the treatments for chronic tension headache?

1. Painkillers. You may well be used to taking painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
2. Treating the cause: diary.
3. Stress and depression.
4. Regular exercise.
5. Physiotherapy.
6. Acupuncture.
7. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
8. Preventative medication.