Tension headaches
Overview
The main symptom of a tension headache is pain on both sides of your head, face or neck. They last at least 30 minutes but can last much longer.
Stress is a common cause of tension headaches. Other possible causes include sleep problems and caffeine.
Things you can do to ease a tension headache include relaxing activities like exercise and massage, taking painkillers and cutting down on caffeine.
You may want to keep a diary to record the details of your headaches. If painkillers and exercise do not help, you may be referred to a specialist.
You may be offered a course of acupuncture if you get tension headaches regularly. A medicine called amitriptyline is also sometimes recommended.
Tension headaches are very common. You can treat them yourself with painkillers but see a GP if you have several headaches a week or they’re severe.
Page last reviewed: 04/03/2022
Next review due: 04/03/2025