Does generalised anxiety disorder cause headache?

Worry can keep the jaw, scalp, neck and shoulder muscles tense. Stress may also disturb sleep, alter breathing and make ordinary sensations feel more prominent. Together, these effects can contribute to a pressure-like or tight headache. Migraine, dehydration, infection, vision strain, medication use and other causes can produce headache too. The timing, pattern and accompanying symptoms help a clinician judge what is happening.

Keep a simple headache diary covering onset, location, duration, sleep, meals, fluids, screen time, stress and any nausea or light sensitivity. Regular meals, hydration, gentle neck movement, rest and relaxation practice may be useful. Use pain medicines only as directed and ask a pharmacist or clinician if headaches recur often. Assessment can address both headache features and possible anxiety.

Arrange medical advice for a new recurring pattern, worsening headaches, headaches after injury or symptoms that interfere with ordinary activities. Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, trouble speaking, fainting, confusion, seizure, stiff neck with fever or repeated vomiting. Do not wait for anxiety treatment to explain a warning sign.

Does my headache pattern resemble tension headache, migraine or another type? Could sleep, vision, medicines or caffeine be contributing? What warning signs should prompt urgent review?