Tension Headaches

Tension headaches (also called tension-type headaches) are the most common primary headache disorder. They are often described as a dull, pressing, or tightening pain on both sides of the head, sometimes with a band-like sensation across the forehead or scalp. Compared with migraine, tension headaches are usually less likely to cause nausea, vomiting, or pronounced sensitivity to light and sound, though mild overlap can occur. In many people, muscular tension in the neck, shoulders, jaw, or scalp, poor ergonomics, stress, sleep disruption, and prolonged screen time appear to play a contributing role.

Treatment options vary because tension headaches are not driven by a single mechanism. Some episodes are occasional and respond to short-term symptom relief, while others become frequent or chronic and may involve central pain sensitization, neck or jaw dysfunction, myofascial trigger points, or medication-overuse patterns. For that reason, care may include Western approaches such as over-the-counter analgesics, preventive medicines, physical therapy, or behavioral therapies, alongside Eastern approaches such as acupuncture, trigger point acupuncture, or traditional mind-body practices. An intellectually honest comparison looks at likely benefit, time horizon, risk, and how well each option fits the pattern of symptoms and daily life burden.