What to do when a tension headache lasts for days

Tension-type headache can be sustained by an ongoing trigger, including poor sleep, dehydration, long periods in one position, stress, or jaw clenching. However, a headache lasting for days may also have another explanation. Consider whether the pain is pressure-like or throbbing, whether it is on one or both sides, and whether light sensitivity, nausea, fever, neck stiffness, weakness, or vision changes are present. These details help a clinician decide what assessment is appropriate.

Rest your eyes, change position regularly, drink water, eat normally, and keep your jaw and shoulders loose. A warm shower or compress may ease muscle tightness. Follow the label for any pain medicine and do not keep increasing doses or combining products without pharmacist advice. Write down when the headache began, what you took, and whether it helped. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) is sensible when the episode continues across days, especially if this is not your usual pattern.

Seek emergency help for an abrupt, severe headache or pain with weakness, numbness, confusion, fainting, speech difficulty, vision loss, fever and stiff neck, repeated vomiting, or a recent head injury. Obtain prompt medical advice if the headache keeps worsening, prevents normal activity, or is accompanied by unusual drowsiness. Do not wait for self-care to work when warning symptoms are present.

What features suggest a tension headache rather than another cause? Do I need an examination or blood-pressure check? Which treatment can I use safely, and how should I prevent medicine-overuse headaches?