Tension headache at the top of the head: what to know

Tension-type headache often produces pressing, tightening, or aching discomfort over the scalp. The top of the head may feel tender because scalp, neck, and jaw muscles are strained, especially after prolonged screen use, poor posture, stress, or teeth clenching. The pain may be on both sides and usually does not have the throbbing quality associated with some other headache patterns.

Record whether the pain is new, sudden, one-sided, worsened by activity, or accompanied by nausea, visual symptoms, fever, weakness, or neck stiffness. These details help distinguish a familiar pattern from one that needs prompt evaluation.

Pause close-up work, adjust your screen and chair, relax your jaw, and use a warm or cool pack on the neck if comfortable. Drink water and eat if you have missed a meal. Gentle shoulder movement and a regular sleep routine may reduce triggers.

If headaches become frequent, last longer than usual, or disrupt work or sleep, arrange a GP consultation. A clinician can review your symptoms, examine you, and discuss safe treatment options.

Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, facial drooping, speech or vision difficulty, confusion, seizure, fainting, fever with a stiff neck, or pain after a head injury. Prompt assessment is also sensible when the headache is steadily worsening or unlike your usual pattern.

Ask whether the location and quality fit tension-type headache, whether your posture, jaw, sleep, or medicines may contribute, and which symptoms require urgent care. Ask how to keep a useful headache diary.