Head tension and tension headache: what to know

A tension-type headache may feel like a band, weight or pressure across the forehead, temples or back of the head. It can spread into the neck and shoulders and may be linked with muscle tightness, prolonged screen or desk work, stress, poor sleep, missed meals or jaw clenching. It is often steady rather than throbbing, and ordinary movement may be less disruptive than with some other headache types. Nausea, fever, neurological symptoms or a sudden explosive onset suggest a different situation and should not be dismissed as tension.

Take a screen break, relax the jaw, change position and gently move the neck and shoulders. Eat regularly, drink fluids and keep a consistent sleep routine. A cool or warm pack may help. If you use an over-the-counter pain reliever, follow its label and check with a pharmacist if you have another condition, take other medicines or are pregnant. Record timing, duration, triggers, associated symptoms and medication use. A GP consultation is useful when headaches recur, change pattern or affect work and sleep.

Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, trouble speaking, vision loss, severe neck stiffness or headache after a significant injury. Get prompt advice for a new headache with fever, repeated vomiting, pregnancy, cancer, immune suppression or steadily worsening symptoms.

Ask whether the pattern fits tension-type headache, how often pain medicine can be used safely, whether jaw, eyesight, sleep or posture may contribute, and what headache changes should prompt urgent review.