At times, it can be difficult to distinguish between tension-type headache and a migraine attack. TTH is not made worse by physical activity. It is not accompanied by vomiting, and if nausea is present, it is mild. A migraine attack may be accompanied by increased sensitivity to both light and sound; TTH is accompanied by one or neither. It is, however, possible for a tension-type headache to trigger a migraine attack.
Treatment of Tension-Type Headaches
Infrequent episodic TTH needs only treatment for the individual episodes (acute treatment). If the number of episodes falls into the higher end of the frequent episodic range or into the chronic range, both episodic and preventive treatment is recommended.
Treatment for tension-type headache episodes include:
- aspirin (for adults)
- acetaminophen
- ibuprofen
- aspirin/acetaminophen/caffeine combinations
- muscle relaxants
- combination prescription medications with codeine, hydrocodone, butalbital, caffeine
The most commonly used preventive medications are:
- antidepressants such as amitriptyline
- muscle relaxants
- Botox
Complementary methods are often employed to treat tension-type headache, including:
- physical therapy
- massage therapy
- biofeedback
- acupuncture
-
relaxation exercises
Summary
Tension-type headaches are usually more an annoyance than a big problem. Most of the time, they can be treated with an over-the-counter medication and a bit of rest. Still, headaches should always be diagnosed by our doctors to be on the safe side and to be sure we're treating them appropriately. More frequent tension-type headaches may require daily preventive medications or complementary therapies to restore health and quality of life.
Resources:
"The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd Edition." Cephalalgia 24 (s1). doi: 10.1111/j. 1468-2982.2003.00824.x
Young, William B., MD; Silberstein, Stephen D., MD. "Migraine and Other Headaches." New York: AAN Press. 2004.
Tepper, Stewart J., MD. "Understanding Migraine and Other Headaches." University Press of Mississippi. 2004.
"Headache Disorders and Public Health." Geneva: World Health Organization. 2000.
