A COMMON PRESSURE-TYPE HEADACHE
Tension Headache
A common headache with a tight, pressing or band-like sensation around the head, often related to stress, poor posture or muscle tension. Manageable with lifestyle changes and structured care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Tension Headache
Tension headache is the most common type of headache, characterised by a tight, pressing or band-like sensation around the head, typically on both sides. The pain is usually mild to moderate, does not throb and is not aggravated by routine physical activity — distinguishing it from migraine. Tension headaches can be episodic (occasional) or chronic (occurring more than 15 days per month). Common triggers include stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, poor posture, prolonged screen use, eye strain, dehydration and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. Most episodic tension headaches respond well to simple measures and over-the-counter pain relief, while chronic forms benefit from a structured approach including lifestyle modification, stress management, physical therapy and, in selected cases, preventive medical therapy. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis and comprehensive care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Stress, anxiety and emotional tension
- Lack of sleep and irregular sleep patterns
- Poor posture and prolonged screen use
- Eye strain and uncorrected vision problems
- Dehydration and skipped meals
- Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
- Caffeine withdrawal in regular users
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical evaluation based on characteristic features and headache pattern
Episodic (occasional) · Chronic (more than 15 days per month)
Lifestyle changes, stress management, simple pain relief and preventive therapy when chronic
Identifying stress, posture, sleep and screen-time factors is essential
Sudden severe headache, new pattern, neurological signs or systemic symptoms
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Lifestyle Modification with Stress Management
The most effective approach combines structured lifestyle modifications — addressing sleep, posture, screen time, hydration and stress — with simple pain relief for episodic attacks and preventive therapy for chronic tension headaches.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews headache pattern, lifestyle and stress factors, examines the patient and arranges imaging only if red-flag features are present.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with lifestyle modifications, ergonomic advice and acute or preventive therapy as appropriate.
- 3
Medical Management
Lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, ergonomic improvements, simple pain relief for attacks and preventive therapy in chronic cases.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review to assess headache pattern, refine the plan and address any persistent contributing factors.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Lifestyle and Stress Management
Regular sleep, hydration, stress-management techniques, relaxation practices and structured breaks during screen work significantly reduce tension headaches.
Ergonomic and Posture Improvements
Correcting posture, optimising desk and screen setup, and taking regular breaks during prolonged sitting reduce muscle tension headaches.
Simple Pain Relief for Episodic Attacks
Safe over-the-counter pain relief is effective for occasional tension headaches when used in moderation, avoiding overuse that can cause rebound headaches.
Physical Therapy in Selected Cases (Referral for physiotherapy)
Physiotherapy focused on neck, shoulder and posture muscles can help patients with muscle tension as a major contributor.
Preventive Therapy in Chronic Cases
Daily preventive medical therapy may be considered in patients with chronic tension headaches that significantly affect quality of life.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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