What are Tension Headaches?

Main Category: Headache / Migraine
Article Date: 13 Jun 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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Tension headaches are very common and are most likely in adults and adolescents. A tension headache is where there is muscle tightness in certain areas in the head, scalp or neck accompanied by pain or discomfort in the same place. The symptoms are a dull, all-over-pain which often feels like a tight band or vice on the head. Such headaches are caused by the tension in the neck and scalp muscles and may be as a result of stress, depression, head injury or anxiety. They can even be caused by the head being held in the same position for too long such as when typing or using a computer, doing fine work with the hands or using a microscope. Even going to bed in too cold a room or sleeping with the neck in an abnormal position may bring on this tension headache. There are several other causes such as:

- Eye strain.
- Tiredness.
- Alcohol and/or heavy smoking.
- Too much caffeine.
- Sinus infection or nasal congestion.
- Overexertion.
- Colds and flu.

The best treatment for tension headaches is prevention. If you can learn to understand what causes or "triggers" your tension headaches, so that you can be in control, you will be able to prevent future headaches. While you are getting to the bottom of what your particular trigger is, you might find it helpful to try a natural healing product by applying a few drops to the forehead, neck and temples as well as the soles of the feet.

Here are some other suggestions to follow:

- Learn to relax - relaxation exercises or even meditation may be helpful.
- Keep warm if the headache is possibly caused by the cold.
- Try using a different pillow, or fewer pillows or change your sleeping position.
- Watch your posture when reading, working or doing other activities that may cause these tension headaches. And while you are carrying out such activities, exercise the neck and shoulders frequently. If you work at a computer for hours at a stretch, make a point of getting up every hour and having a 5 minute break doing something else. Pilates is a good activity to take up if your posture is poor. Make sure you get plenty of sleep and rest.
- A massage of sore muscles can be soothing and relaxing.
- Hot or cold showers or baths can sometimes be effective in relieving headaches.

A few simple changes to your lifestyle may make all the difference in getting those tension headaches sorted out.

Amoils offers all natural treatments for common conditions and ailments using essential oils. Visit our Headaches page for more information.

http://www.amoils.com