The Possible Causes of a Tension Headache
A tension headache is considered to be the most common type of headache that people experience. This type of headache is usually associated with a moderate amount of pain. It may also produce a feeling of pain in the back of the neck. Although tension headaches can be annoying they typically are not associated with a serious disease.
A tension headache can be troubling for as little as thirty minutes but for some people up to about a week. You probably have chronic headaches if you experience them fifteen days or more during a month for a period of several months. Chronic headaches have been known to continue for years at a time. Tension headaches typically are not combined with nausea, stomach pain, difficulty speaking or visual problems.
Experts used to believe that tension headaches were primarily produced by the contraction of muscles in the face and the neck as well as the scalp area. However, research which utilized an electromtogram, which is able to record electrical currents produced by activity in the muscles, did not find an increase in tension in the muscles with patients with tension headaches. Some researchers believe that muscle tension might not be the main factor for this variety of headache.
Brain Chemicals
Current research now indicates that tension headaches may be caused by changes in some types of brain chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin as well as chemicals that assist nerves in communicating. The changes in brain chemicals might stimulate the pain pathways that go to the brain and they may also disrupt the ability of the brain to stifle the pain.
Variety of Causes
For some people depression as well as anxiety can be factors in chronic tension headaches occurring. Research has shown there are numerous factors that can produce this variety of headache including stress, not enough sleep, bad posture, being in an awkward physical position and even overuse of medications for headaches. People who have developed stiff joints and muscles in the neck area or in the shoulders might be susceptible to headaches.
Over the counter medications can be successful in treating headaches. Aspirin, ibuprofen as well as acetaminophen can be quite useful. People who suffer from chronic headaches may need the assistance of strong painkilling medications. Experts suggest people use pain medication only when really needed and the smallest dosage that is helpful since overusing pain killers can produce rebound headaches or create chronic headaches on a daily basis. If your tension headaches occur often you might want to consult with your doctor.
