The causes of tension headaches is not known, however many researchers in this field believe that they are caused by muscle tension in the head and neck.  However, , there are many different forms of tension headaches and recent thinking is that there is more than one cause for this type of headache.

One theory is a malfunctioning pain filter that is found in the brain stem which may cause the pain. The thought is that the brain misinterprets certain information from muscles in the head and neck and interprets these signals as pain.
Serotonin is thought to be one of main chemical transmitters of the pain signals.  This theory is supported by the fact that tension headaches can be successfully treated with some antidepressants, that block the transmission and the receiving of the serotonin chemical transmitter at the nerve fiber ends. Teeth clenching is another theory as a cause for tension type headaches as well as migraines as it causes chronic contraction of the temporalis muscle.

Nonprescription pain medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen commonly relieve tension headaches. When severe muscle contraction occurs, stronger prescription drugs may be needed. However, there are side effects associated with these stronger medications, namely drowsiness and slower reflexes. Therefore, most physicians will only recommend using strong medications for short periods of time and usually not for more than a few days.  Stress management can be very effective. Some people find exercises or meditation to be very relaxing. Biofeedback may improve relaxation exercises and can prove helpful for chronic tension headaches.

Other preventive measures include keeping warm if your headache is associated with the cold temperature. Other techniques to reduce the frequency and severity of tensions headachesinclude the use of a different pillow or changing your sleeping position, and adopting correct posture when reading, working or doing other activities.  Exercise your neck and shoulder muscles when doing prolonged typing, computer work or when doing any close-up work. Getting adequate sleep and massaging sore muscles can sometimes help reduce headaches.  Hot or cold showers or baths may relieve headaches too, so it’s worth experimenting to see if any of these techniques are helpful for you.

Keeping a diary of your headaches can help identify the source of chronic headaches. When you suffer with a headache write down the date and time when the headache began. Also write down what you ate and how much sleep you got over the previous 24 hours. Also, notice if you have any unusual symptoms or felt under stress.  Keep a record of the duration, severity and frequency of the headaches  and what if anything helped it to stop. Having a headache diary available can act as a tracking device and you may find patterns that may aid in the treatment of your headaches.

Some lifestyle changes may be necessary to reduce tension headaches. This may include getting enough rest and obtaining regular exercise, changing your diet, cutting back on the use of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking cessation.  Reducing stress may also require more significant changes in your lifestyle, including changes in your job and making changes in your social interactions with family and friends which may be contributing to your stress.

If you are suffering with headaches or migraines, you should first consult your primary care physician to better understand the causes and various treatment options for chronic headaches.