Is your headache a tension headache?

Tension headaches last at least 30 minutes but they can last much longer, sometimes for several days.
Is my headache, a tension headache?

Common symptoms of tension headaches include:

  • pain on both sides of your head, face or neck
  • feeling like something is pressing on your head or being tightened around it
  • the affected area may feel tender and your head may hurt more when touched

Tension headaches are annoying but not as disabling as for example, migraines.  When you have a tension headache it is normal that you are able to continue with your daily activities without risking making your headache worse.

Common causes of tension headaches include:

  • stress
  • sleep problems
  • caffeine
  • tight muscles in your neck & shoulders

If you feel your sleeping issues are contributing to your tension headaches then changing your sleeping habits may be beneficial.   If you feel stress is contributing to your tension headaches then prioritising relaxing activities or yoga may be beneficial.

In my experience some clients who have tight neck & shoulder also suffer from tension headaches.  In addition it is common for people to carry their stress in their neck & shoulders which means they become tense which may lead to tension headaches.   Feeling stressed or having tight neck & shoulder are issues that frequently lead to clients booking a massage.

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