The More You Know...

What Causes Tension Headaches?

• Inadequate rest
• Poor posture
• Emotional or mental stress, including depression
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Hunger
• Overexertion

Tension headaches are usually triggered by some type of environmental or internal stress. The most common sources of stress include family, social relationships, friends, work and school. Examples of stressors include:

• Having problems at home/difficult family life
• Starting a new job
• Being overweight
• Deadlines at work
• Competing in sports or other activities
• Being a perfectionist
• Not getting enough sleep
• Being over-extended (involved in too many activities/organizations)

Episodic tension headaches are usually triggered by an isolated stressful situation or a build-up of stress. Daily stress can lead to chronic tension headaches.

What Are the Symptoms of Tension Headaches?

• Mild to moderate pain or pressure affecting the front, top or sides of the head
• Headache occurring later in the day
• Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
• Chronic fatigue
• Irritability
• Disturbed concentration
• Mild sensitivity to light or noise
• General muscle aching

Thanks WebMD! Helping hypochondriacs since 1998.