Cures for a Tension Headache

Tension headaches are one of the most common types of headaches. They cause a persistent, dull pain anywhere from the base of the neck to the base of the head in the back. The headaches are associated with trigger points, which are sensitive areas in the neck muscles. Those who suffer from tension headaches usually feel a painful throbbing or a feeling of tightness around the head. Luckily, cures for tension headaches are available.

Medication

• Tension headaches are generally fairly mild and can be cured with over-the-counter medication such as aspirin, Tylenol or Motrin.

  Amitriptyline is a prescription antidepressant used to prevent the onset of tension headaches. It must be taken daily, not just when a headache appears.

  Paracetamol, a prescription pain medicine that contains codeine, works well for tension headaches. It is necessary to take a full dose when the headache starts and then take another dose several hours later if the headache has not subsided.

Exercise

• Tension headaches occur more often in those who do not regularly exercise. So to prevent tension headaches, try jogging, walking, swimming, cycling or another aerobic exercise. It is not known why exercise relieves tension headaches and prevents their onset. It could be that exercise relieves tension and stress, which are major factors in starting tension headaches. In addition to helping with headaches, exercise also will benefit a person's overall physical health.

Relaxation

• The flip side to exercising is relaxing. Relaxation helps to ease tension and stress, which in turn prevents tension headaches from starting. Take a walk or take a break from routine. Get a massage, especially a neck and shoulder massage. Relax in a warm bath. All of these relaxation techniques can prevent a tension headache.

Eliminate Stress

• Depression, tension and stress are triggers for tension headaches. Avoid stressful environments and situations when possible. Learn some breathing and relaxation exercises to do during stressful situations to avoid the onset of tension headaches. Visiting a counselor or psychologist might help. People who are depressed experience more headaches, so see a doctor if you have severe depression.

Diary

• Some tension headache sufferers have found a cure for their headaches through journaling or keeping a diary. Note where and when each headache occurs, how severe it is and how long it lasts. Note anything you think might have triggered the headache. After enough entries, a pattern might emerge, and it might reveal what triggers to avoid, such as anger, stress, bad posture while reading, eye strain or hunger.