Treatment for Tension Headaches in LA
Tension headaches are associated with dull pain and pressure or tightness around the forehead of the back of the head and neck. People describe the feeling like a tight band that is squeezing the skull. Tension headaches are the most common type of headaches in adults and are also known as stress, muscle tension, or ordinary headaches, according to Harvard Medical School.
Tension headaches are of two main types: episodic tension headaches and chronic tension headaches. If the headaches last for less than 15 days each month, they are defined as episodic. If the number exceeds 15 days a month, then it is defined as chronic.
Emedicinehealth states that tension headaches are most common in people aged 20-50. These headaches may last a couple of minutes or even a few days. In cases of chronic tension headaches, the pain can increase or decrease throughout the day; however, it never completely goes away.
Symptoms of tension headaches include dull pain, tightness around the forehead, and tenderness around the scalp and forehead. In most cases, the pain is mild but can increase in severity. It is easy to confuse tension headaches with migraines especially when the pain increases. However, tension headaches are not associated with vomiting and nausea.
The main cause for such headaches is muscle contractions in the neck and head region. Various foods, stressors, and activities can bring about such contractions. Other triggers include smoking, fatigue, alcohol, eye strain, cold temperatures, flu, sinus infection, poor posture, emotional stress, and caffeine.
Many people tend to ignore medical attention and try to treat the headache on their own. Unfortunately, this can often lead to other types of headaches.
The best course of action is to seek medical attention. Doctors use acute medications such as pain relievers and combination medications along with preventive medications including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants.
Dr. Farzin Pedouim is a board-certified neurologist and headache disorder specialist based in Huntington Beach and Los Angeles. He has the tools and expertise to help patients find relief from the tension headache symptoms and go about their daily lives.