What should you know about Nurofen for a tension headache?

A tension-type headache often feels like pressure or a tight band around the head, sometimes with tenderness in the scalp, neck or shoulders. Stress, missed meals, dehydration, prolonged screen posture and poor sleep may contribute. Migraine, medication overuse, infection and other causes can feel different, so the pattern matters.

Nurofen contains ibuprofen, which reduces pain and inflammation. It is not suitable for everyone, including some people with stomach ulcers, kidney disease, certain heart conditions, aspirin-sensitive asthma or pregnancy. A pharmacist can check whether it fits your circumstances and other medicines.

Follow the packet directions and do not combine Nurofen with another ibuprofen product or similar anti-inflammatory painkiller. Drink water, eat regularly, rest your eyes, and gently relax the neck and shoulders. Keep a headache diary if episodes repeat, recording timing, triggers, symptoms and medicines used.

Book a GP consultation when headaches are recurring, becoming more frequent, needing regular painkillers, or affecting work and sleep. A review can look for triggers and decide whether another treatment is more suitable.

Call emergency services for a sudden severe headache, headache after a significant head injury, or pain with weakness, facial drooping, confusion, fainting, seizure, stiff neck, high fever or new vision loss. Seek prompt advice for a new headache during pregnancy or with persistent vomiting.

Ask whether your pattern fits a tension headache, how often painkillers are safe for you, and what prevention steps could reduce repeat episodes.