Tension Headache

A tension headache is a headache that feels like there’s a tight band wrapped around your head that puts pressure on your forehead and temples. Healthcare providers may call them tension-type headaches. Many factors cause tension headaches, and you may be unable to avoid all potential triggers. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent a tension headache. And if home treatment doesn’t work, healthcare providers may have medications and other therapies to ease tension headache pressure.

Types of tension headaches

Healthcare providers classify tension headaches based on how often you have one. Condition types include:

• Infrequent episodic: Headaches happen one day a month or fewer.
• Frequent episodic: You have one to 14 headaches every month for at least three months.
• Chronic: You have more than 15 headaches every month for three months.

Are tension headaches common?

Tension headaches are the most common primary headache type. Researchers estimate more than 70% of people have episodic tension headaches. They typically affect more women and people assigned female at birth than men and people assigned male at birth.