Most people have at one time or another experienced atension-bang out headache.
Some people experience these headaches frequently, a condition known as chronic tension-punch in headaches.
Some people experience tenderness on the scalp, neck, and shoulders as well.
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Chronic tension headaches occur on 15 or more days per month on average for more than three months.
The headache can last for several hours orbe continuous for several days.
Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching the jaw can also be a factor.
Treatment
Pharmacological therapy for sufferers of chronic tension headaches usually involves a preventive medication.
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is one medication that has been found to be beneficial in chronic tension headache prevention.
Amitriptyline a tricyclic antidepressant is a sedating medication and is usually taken at bedtime.
In addition, the findings also suggest acupuncture may be a cost-effective therapy.
The patient is then trained to control that muscle tension in hopes of preventing a headache.
Physical therapy:A physical therapist can prescribe exercises that work on tight head and neck muscles.
Many headache specialists will often recommend CBT in addition to medication when devising a treatment plan for their patients.
Treating teeth-grinding and jaw-clenching can help when those are causing the headached.
Supplements
Some people with chronic tension headaches find relief using supplements.
It can interfere with work, relationships, and daily living.
It can also cause pain in the forehead, back of the head, neck, and shoulders.
It is often described as feeling like a tight rubber band is wrapped around your head.
Tension headaches can last for only a few hours or continue for several days.
Tension headaches are usually because of stress.
Alcohol, anxiety, depression, dehydration, fasting, or sleep deprivation can also contribute to tension headaches.
Chronic tension headache is treated with medications that either prevent headaches or relieve the pain.
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National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Headaches: In Depth.
