The tension headache is one that nearly all of us will experience at least one time.\u00a0 That dull, achy feeling that hurts both sides of our head.\u00a0 It also may involve tight feelings in the muscles in the neck and shoulders.<\/p>\n
It begins slowly and gradually builds up and normally begins in the middle of the day.\u00a0 That is when\u00a0tension<\/a>\u00a0and stress begin to build up and take over your body.\u00a0 This\u00a0tension<\/a>, or stress headache can be mild but occasionally be severe.<\/p>\n If you think you are having a tension headache, you should contact your doctor.\u00a0 Your doctor will want a description of your pain, when it happens and how often.\u00a0 Tests may be ordered.\u00a0 They include blood tests, CT scan, and in some cases an MRI might be indicated.<\/p>\n Once you have a diagnosis of tension or stress headache, your doctor may advise you to treat it with over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, Motrin, or Aspirin.\u00a0 Always check labels to be sure the nonprescription medicines will not interact with any prescribed medications you are taking.<\/p>\n Do not over medicate on over-the-counter medications.\u00a0 If they are not helping the pain, see your doctor again.<\/p>\n There are prescription medicines that can help with tension headaches.\u00a0 Your doctor may also want you to take a prescribed medicine every day to help prevent the headaches from coming on.\u00a0 You will have an easier time treating your tension headache if you begin treatment before they become recurring and severe.<\/p>\n If you continue to have tension\u00a0headaches<\/a>\u00a0often, or they become severe, you should contact your doctor.\u00a0 You may have progressed to the more severe\u00a0migraine<\/a>\u00a0headache.<\/p>\n You may also try other nonmedication ways to treat a tension headache.\u00a0 Try taking a hot shower and allowing the hot water to massage tense muscles in your neck and shoulders.\u00a0 A heat pack on your head or neck may also help.\u00a0 If heat does not help, try using a cold pack.<\/p>\n If it is possible, try to take time away from the\u00a0stressful<\/a>\u00a0situation.\u00a0 Sometimes just a few minutes away will allow tension to ease and your pain to subside.\u00a0 Take a brief walk, take a few minutes to meditate, or better yet, take a vacation!<\/p>\n Prevention of tension\u00a0headaches<\/a>\u00a0is the easiest way to avoid the pain.\u00a0 Be sure you get the proper amount of sleep.\u00a0 An adult needs at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.\u00a0 It is the only way your body can rest and your muscles relax before you start a new day.<\/p>\n Finally, get some exercise.\u00a0 Any regular exercise will help you relieve tension and\u00a0stress<\/a>.\u00a0 Start out slow and build up.\u00a0 You should try to work up to exercising four to six times a week and from 30 to 60 minutes at a time.\u00a0 Always consult your doctor before starting a new\u00a0exercise program<\/a>.<\/p>\n