How long does a GP consultation take to work for a tension headache?

The GP will ask about pressure or tightness, where the pain is felt, how long episodes last, sleep, stress, posture and medicine use. They may check your nerves, eyes, neck and blood pressure.

Tension-type headache often feels like a band or pressure rather than a throbbing pain, but a new or changing pattern should be assessed rather than labelled from symptoms alone.

Follow the agreed plan, which may include water, regular meals, sleep, breaks from close screen work, neck and shoulder relaxation, and suitable pain relief. Take medicines only as directed.

Keep a brief headache diary showing timing, triggers, symptoms and medicine use. This can reveal links with missed meals, muscle tension or disrupted sleep and makes follow-up more useful.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, confusion, fever with a stiff neck, or a major change in vision.

Arrange GP review when headaches keep returning, change character, follow a head injury, or need frequent pain medicine. Persistent vomiting or worsening pain also warrants prompt advice.

Ask which features support tension-type headache, which pain relief is suitable for you, how often it can be used, and when preventive or specialist advice should be considered.