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Symptoms of Anxiety Headaches

Anxiety headaches are usually easy to diagnose, because they're associated with specific types of pain. They're also the most common type of headaches. People who have them tend to be under a lot of stress or hold their heads in strained positions for long periods of time. Treatment can include lifestyle changes as well as medication. Anxiety headaches are also referred to as stress or tension headaches. Most people don't experience nausea or light sensitivity with them, unlike migraines.

  1. Symptoms

    • For most people, anxiety headaches cause an achy and dull pain, sometimes described as squeezing, rather than a throbbing sensation. They tend to start out mild and get worse over time. The pain can be on the back of your head and neck, temples, forehead, or both sides of your head. You might also have muscle tightness and pain in your head and neck with an anxiety headache.

    Types

    • Anxiety headaches are classified as being either chronic or episodic, depending on their severity and how long they last. Individuals who are diagnosed with episodic tension headaches have mild or moderate pain that occurs less than 15 times a month. The pain can last anywhere from half an hour to a week. If the headaches happen more than 15 times a month, the condition is chronic.

    Causes

    • The basic cause of anxiety headaches is tension in neck and head muscles. This can be brought on by either physical or mental stress. Holding your head in a bent or twisted position for long periods of time leads to strain. Common examples of this are having poor posture, bending your neck while you use a computer, and leaning over to read a book. Excess worry, anxiety, and stress can also cause you to unintentionally tighten these muscles and lead to headaches.

    Treatment

    • Most anxiety headaches can be treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen. It should be taken as soon as you notice the beginning of a headache. Other simple remedies include taking a hot shower or bath, applying a heat or ice pack, and massage. If the pain is severe or frequent, speak with a doctor about other options.

    Prevention

    • It's better to prevent anxiety headaches rather than treating the symptoms after they occur. Begin by determining whether the cause of your pain is physical, psychological, or both. Take steps to reduce your stress level, such as counseling, getting enough sleep, and spending time outdoors. Stretch your neck and shoulder muscles frequently. Improve your posture, and make sure you're getting enough exercise.

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