Home remedies for tension headaches

A tension headache often causes pressing or tightening pain across the forehead, temples or back of the head. Neck and shoulder stiffness, jaw clenching, prolonged screen use, stress and poor sleep can contribute. The discomfort may be mild or moderate, but a new or unusual headache should not be labelled a tension headache without considering other causes.

Drink water and eat at regular times. Rest your eyes, lower screen brightness and adjust your chair so your head is not held forward. Use gentle neck stretches, shoulder rolls or a warm pack on tight muscles; stop if movement increases pain. Relax your jaw by keeping your teeth apart. If you use an over-the-counter pain reliever, follow the label and check with a pharmacist if you have other conditions or medicines. Frequent use can itself contribute to recurring headaches.

Seek urgent help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, trouble speaking, vision loss, fever with a stiff neck, or repeated vomiting. Arrange a GP consultation if headaches are frequent, progressively worsening, triggered by exertion, follow an injury, or interfere with work and sleep. A clinician can review your pattern, medicines, blood pressure and possible migraine features.

What features suggest tension headache rather than migraine or another cause? How can I manage neck strain safely? Which pain reliever suits my health history, and how often can I take it?