Important Things Sufferers of Chronic Tension Headaches Should Know
Chronic headache inflicts chronic pain and affects your quality of life. A chronic tension headache is mainly a headache disorder also called stress headache. This kind of headache is characterized by a tightening sensation that takes place on both sides of the head or back of the head. It is a chronic headache as it occurs every day, negatively affecting your daily functioning.
Symptoms of Chronic Tension Headache
Typically, chronic tension headaches last hours or are continuous. They should not be confused with other kinds of chronic daily headaches such as chronic migraine and hemicrania continua. The headaches that can be experienced in a chronic tension headache tend to occur frequently. Sometimes, the headache can seem permanent and hardly goes. Sufferers of this condition will have headaches on at least fifteen days every month for at least three months. Thankfully, the National Headache Center New Jersey can help.
Causes of the Headache
Chronic tension headaches develop in individuals who start off with a tension headache that tends to increase in frequency. But, the cause of this kind of headache is not always clear. It might because of the tension of the muscles at the back of the head and neck. Other possible causes can include stress, hunger, tiredness, and eye strain. Chronic tension headaches can be triggered by working long hours bent over a computer.
A number of people can have these headaches when they consume too much alcohol or caffeine or if they do not drink enough water. In some cases, these headaches can be caused by poor vision, especially when reading in low light for a long period of time.
Treatment for Chronic Tension Headaches
Treating chronic tension headaches often include preventative medication. Sufferers are recommended to take Amitriptyline (Elavil) to prevent chronic tension headaches. As a sedative, it must be taken at bedtime. Other preventative medicines that doctors may prescribe include other antidepressants and anti-seizure medications.
Moreover, behavioral therapies might be used alone or in combination with a medication to prevent chronic tension headaches. These therapies can include relaxation, Electromyography (EMG) biofeedback, acupuncture, and Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
As stress triggers these headaches, it is important to avoid stressful situations whenever possible. In some cases, a stressful situation or job cannot be avoided so it essential to learn to cope with stress and to relax. Coping strategies as well as breathing and relaxation exercises may help in easing anxiety in stressful situations and preventing a potential headache.
