7 Causes Of Tension Type Headache That May Be Affecting Your Quality Of Life!

Tension-type headaches seem to pop up at the most inconvenient times. From tight deadlines to stressful days, there's no shortage of triggers for these nagging pains. Headaches affect people of all ages and backgrounds. They can range from bothersome to severe and affect a person's quality of life. 

If you are experiencing headaches more frequently, they may be tension-type. This blog will explore the causes of tension-type headaches as a step towards finding relief. Keep reading to find out!

Table Of Contents

1. What Is The Cause Of Tension Headaches?

2. How Long Can Tension Headaches Last?

3. Is It Bad To Have Tension Headaches Every Day?

4. Why Is My Tension Headache Not Going Away?

5. Dietitian’s Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

What Is The Cause Of Tension Headaches?

Here are the prominent causes of tension-type headache:

1. Muscle Tension

As the name implies, headaches are typically caused by head, neck, and shoulder muscle stress. Chronic stress or poor posture is the most common cause of muscle tension, which can damage these muscles and cause a dull ache.

2. Stress And Anxiety

Chronic stress and anxiety play an essential role in the development of headaches. When faced with stress, the body tightens the muscles, especially in the neck and shoulders. At the same time, lengthening of these muscles can also cause headaches.

3. Poor Ergonomics

Sitting at a computer for long periods or doing repetitive tasks can strain your muscles and joints, causing headaches. Proper ergonomics, such as improper desk arrangement or seating, can improve this problem.

4. Eyestrain

In today's digital age, many look at a computer, smartphone, or television screen for longer. Staring at screens for more extended periods can cause digital eye strain and lead to headaches.

5. Dehydration

Insufficient fluid intake can result in dehydration, a typical cause of headaches, especially during this hot weather. Not having enough water in the body can cause temporary or mild brain shrinkage, discomfort, and headaches.

6. Sleep Disturbances

Insufficient sleep or insufficient sleep duration causes the onset of headaches. Headaches can result from tense and sensitive muscles brought on by sleep deprivation.

Also Read: Sleep Better: Everything You Need To Know About Sleep

7. Caffeine Withdrawal

In those who use caffeine regularly, immediately eliminating caffeine or reducing consumption may cause headaches. Because caffeine modifies neurotransmitter levels and blood supply to the brain, abrupt dietary changes might upset the body's equilibrium and result in headaches.

Also Read: Natural Relief For Headaches And Migraines With Herbal Teas 

How Long Can Tension Headaches Last?

Headaches usually last 30 minutes to several hours, but sometimes, they can last up to a day. Chronic headaches can occur 15 or more days a month and last an hour or a day at a time. If they are severe and constantly bothering you, treatment and lifestyle changes can help reduce and prevent relapse.

Is It Bad To Have Tension Headaches Every Day?

Daily headaches can affect quality of life and indicate a health problem. It is essential to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment because chronic headaches can be bothersome and require medical intervention to restore and improve overall health.

Why Is My Tension Headache Not Going Away?

Prolonged headaches can be caused by a number of reasons, including stress, poor posture, dehydration, and sleep deprivation. Muscle weakness, anxiety, or excessive medication use may also cause this condition. If your headache is not going away, you must see a physician who can assist in identifying the problem and creating a successful treatment strategy.

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Maintain a healthy diet that includes magnesium, B vitamins, and water. Don't skip meals because low blood sugar can cause headaches. Avoid caffeine and alcohol and use relaxation techniques to manage stress.

Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

There are various causes of tension type headache, such as stress, bad posture, dehydration, and sleep deprivation. If the headache does not improve after trying these remedies, you must seek medical assistance for additional examination and treatment alternatives.

FAQs

1. What is the cause of tension headaches?

Stress, depression, and excessive work on screen can be the most common causes of tension-type headaches.

2. Does a bad mood impact tension-type headache?

Possibly. A bad mood can cause stress, which can increase cortisol levels in the body and trigger tension-type headaches.

References

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tension-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20353977

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8257-tension-headaches

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