How effective is GP consultation for tension headache?

Tension-type headache often feels like pressure or tightening on both sides of the head, sometimes with tenderness in the scalp, neck or shoulders. A GP will ask about the pain's timing, location, duration, associated symptoms, sleep, stress, posture and use of pain medicines. An examination can help separate a familiar headache pattern from migraine, infection, medication-overuse headache or another cause.

The consultation is especially useful when headaches are frequent, changing, interfering with work or sleep, or difficult to control. Your GP may suggest a symptom diary, practical measures and a plan for medicines, while considering whether further assessment is needed.

Record when each headache starts, how long it lasts, what it feels like, possible triggers and what helps. Notice sleep quality, skipped meals, screen posture and jaw clenching. Maintain regular meals, hydration and rest, and take pain relief only as directed. Bring the diary and a list of all medicines to the consultation so the pattern can be assessed clearly.

Seek urgent care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, trouble speaking, new vision loss, fever with a stiff neck, repeated vomiting or a headache after a significant head injury. A new headache during pregnancy or with a serious underlying illness also needs prompt medical advice.

Ask what features support tension-type headache, which triggers are worth addressing first, how often to use pain relief, whether preventive treatment is suitable, and which changes should prompt urgent review.