Ból głowy napięciowy
Charakterystyka, pielęgnacja i opieka
Ból głowy napięciowy (TTH) jest najczęstszym typem bólu głowy, charakteryzującym się obustronnym, uciskającym bólem o łagodnym do umiarkowanego nasileniu, trwającym od 30 minut do kilku dni, a w przewlekłej postaci nawet do 7 dni. Przewlekły TTH definiuje się jako ból występujący ≥15 dni/miesiąc przez co najmniej 3 miesiące. Objawy to brak nudności i wymiotów, możliwa fotofobia lub fonofobia, napięcie mięśni głowy, szyi i karku. Czynniki wyzwalające obejmują stres, nieprawidłową postawę, zaburzenia snu, odwodnienie, głód, nadmierne spożycie alkoholu i nikotynę. Diagnostyka pielęgniarska powinna uwzględniać szczegółowy wywiad dotyczący charakterystyki bólu, czynników wyzwalających, historii bólów, stosowanych leków oraz stylu życia pacjenta.
- Charakterystyka bólu głowy napięciowego
- Przyczyny i czynniki wyzwalające
- Ocena i diagnoza pielęgniarska
- Interwencje pielęgniarskie w postępowaniu z bólem głowy napięciowym
- Edukacja pacjenta i profilaktyka
- Monitorowanie i ocena skuteczności leczenia
- Wielodyscyplinarne podejście do leczenia
- Specjalne grupy pacjentów
- Podsumowanie roli pielęgniarki
Charakterystyka bólu głowy napięciowego
Ból głowy napięciowy (ang. Tension-Type Headache, TTH) jest najczęstszym typem bólu głowy występującym w populacji ogólnej. Dotyka on nieznacznie częściej kobiet niż mężczyzn i może pojawić się w każdym wieku, choć najczęściej występuje u nastolatków i dorosłych. 123
Ból głowy napięciowy charakteryzuje się następującymi objawami:
- Obustronny, uciskający lub ściskający ból, często opisywany jako „opaska” wokół głowy
- Ból o łagodnym do umiarkowanego nasileniu, który nie ulega pogorszeniu przy rutynowej aktywności fizycznej
- Dolegliwości mogą promieniować do szyi i karku, często z towarzyszącym uczuciem napięcia mięśniowego
- Brak nudności i wymiotów (w przeciwieństwie do migreny)
- Może występować nadwrażliwość na światło (fotofobia) lub dźwięk (fonofobia), ale zazwyczaj nie oba objawy jednocześnie
Ból głowy napięciowy może trwać od 30 minut do kilku dni, a w przypadku przewlekłej postaci – nawet do 7 dni. Wyróżniamy dwa główne typy bólu głowy napięciowego ze względu na częstość występowania: epizodyczny i przewlekły. Przewlekły ból głowy napięciowy rozpoznaje się, gdy dolegliwości występują przez 15 lub więcej dni w miesiącu przez co najmniej 3 miesiące. 78
Przyczyny i czynniki wyzwalające
Dokładna przyczyna bólu głowy napięciowego nie jest w pełni poznana, jednakże istnieje wiele zidentyfikowanych czynników wyzwalających i predysponujących do jego wystąpienia. 9 Do najczęstszych należą:
- Stres i napięcie emocjonalne – uważane za główne czynniki wyzwalające
- Nieprawidłowa postawa ciała – zwłaszcza długotrwałe utrzymywanie jednej pozycji
- Zaburzenia snu – zbyt krótki lub nieregularny sen
- Zmęczenie – fizyczne i psychiczne
- Odwodnienie – niewystarczająca ilość przyjmowanych płynów
- Głód i nieregularne posiłki
- Napięcie mięśni głowy, szyi i karku
- Nadmierne spożycie alkoholu
- Palenie tytoniu – nikotyna zmniejsza przepływ krwi do mózgu
- Wytężanie wzroku – długotrwała praca przed ekranem
Ocena i diagnoza pielęgniarska
Prawidłowa ocena pielęgniarska ma kluczowe znaczenie dla skutecznej opieki nad pacjentem z bólem głowy napięciowym. Powinna obejmować kompleksowy wywiad oraz badanie fizykalne, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem czynników wyzwalających i charakterystyki bólu. 14
Wywiad pielęgniarki
Podczas zbierania wywiadu pielęgniarka powinna zebrać następujące informacje:
- Charakterystyka bólu: lokalizacja, natężenie, czas trwania, częstotliwość
- Czynniki wyzwalające i łagodzące ból
- Historia występowania bólów głowy
- Współistniejące objawy
- Wpływ bólu na codzienne funkcjonowanie
- Wcześniejsze leczenie i jego skuteczność
- Stosowane leki, w tym częstość przyjmowania leków przeciwbólowych
- Styl życia: wzorce snu, poziom stresu, regularne posiłki, nawodnienie, aktywność fizyczna
Diagnoza pielęgniarska
Na podstawie zebranych danych pielęgniarka może sformułować następujące diagnozy pielęgniarskie:
- Ból związany z napięciem mięśni głowy, szyi i karku
- Nieskuteczne radzenie sobie z czynnikami wyzwalającymi lub nasilającymi ból głowy
- Deficyt wiedzy dotyczący zarządzania bólem głowy i jego profilaktyki
- Zaburzenia snu związane z bólem lub będące czynnikiem wyzwalającym
- Zmęczenie wynikające z przewlekłego bólu lub będące jego przyczyną
- Niepokój związany z doświadczaniem bólu lub jego wpływem na codzienne funkcjonowanie
Interwencje pielęgniarskie w postępowaniu z bólem głowy napięciowym
Opieka pielęgniarska nad pacjentem z bólem głowy napięciowym powinna obejmować zarówno działania doraźne, łagodzące aktualny ból, jak i edukację pacjenta mającą na celu zapobieganie nawrotom. 15
Interwencje farmakologiczne
W leczeniu doraźnym bólu głowy napięciowego stosuje się:
- Niesteroidowe leki przeciwzapalne (NLPZ): ibuprofen (400 mg), naproksen – są lekami pierwszego wyboru, szczególnie skutecznymi w epizodycznym bólu głowy napięciowym
- Paracetamol: skuteczny w dawce 1000 mg, mniej skuteczny w niższych dawkach
- Kwas acetylosalicylowy (aspiryna): wykazuje dobrą skuteczność w leczeniu doraźnym
- Preparaty złożone z kofeiną mogą zwiększać skuteczność leków przeciwbólowych
W przypadku przewlekłego bólu głowy napięciowego można rozważyć leczenie profilaktyczne:
- Trójcykliczne leki przeciwdepresyjne (TCA): amitryptylina (najlepiej przebadana, zwykle w dawkach 5-75 mg) jest lekiem z wyboru w profilaktyce przewlekłego bólu głowy napięciowego
- Inne leki: mirtazapina, topiramat, gabapentyna mogą być stosowane w wybranych przypadkach
- Beta-blokery i leki przeciwpadaczkowe w przypadkach opornych na standardowe leczenie
Interwencje niefarmakologiczne
Metody niefarmakologiczne stanowią istotny element kompleksowego leczenia bólu głowy napięciowego i obejmują:
- Techniki relaksacyjne: głębokie oddychanie, progresywna relaksacja mięśni, wizualizacja
- Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna: pomaga identyfikować i modyfikować negatywne wzorce myślenia i zachowania związane ze stresem
- Biofeedback: uczenie kontroli napięcia mięśniowego i reakcji fizjologicznych
- Masaż: szczególnie skuteczny w rozluźnianiu napiętych mięśni szyi, karku i ramion
- Kompresy ciepłe lub zimne: aplikowane na czoło, kark lub ramiona
- Odpoczynek w cichym, zaciemnionym pomieszczeniu
- Akupunktura: może przynieść ulgę w przewlekłym bólu głowy
- Fizjoterapia: ćwiczenia rozciągające, mobilizacja stawów, techniki poprawiające postawę
Edukacja pacjenta i profilaktyka
Rola pielęgniarki w edukacji pacjenta jest kluczowa dla skutecznego zarządzania i zapobiegania bólowi głowy napięciowemu. 27
Identyfikacja i unikanie czynników wyzwalających
Pielęgniarka powinna przekazać pacjentowi informacje na temat:
- Prowadzenia dziennika bólu głowy w celu identyfikacji czynników wyzwalających
- Rozpoznawania wczesnych objawów bólu głowy i podejmowania natychmiastowych działań
- Unikania zidentyfikowanych czynników wyzwalających, takich jak:
- Silne zapachy
- Jasne światło
- Hałas
- Niektóre produkty spożywcze (czekolada, ser, wino)
- Wahania hormonalne (miesiączka)
Modyfikacja stylu życia
Zalecenia dotyczące modyfikacji stylu życia, które pielęgniarka powinna przekazać pacjentowi:
- Regularne posiłki – unikanie głodu i stabilizacja poziomu cukru we krwi
- Odpowiednie nawodnienie – regularne picie wody
- Higiena snu – regularne godziny snu, odpowiednia ilość (7-9 godzin)
- Regularna aktywność fizyczna – minimum 30 minut dziennie, uwalnia endorfiny blokujące sygnały bólowe
- Techniki zarządzania stresem – medytacja, joga, tai-chi
- Ergonomia pracy – prawidłowa postawa, regularne przerwy podczas pracy przy komputerze
- Ograniczenie lub eliminacja alkoholu i tytoniu
- Unikanie nadużywania leków przeciwbólowych – nie więcej niż 2-3 razy w tygodniu, aby zapobiec bólom głowy z odbicia
Monitorowanie i ocena skuteczności leczenia
Regularne monitorowanie i ocena skuteczności wdrożonych interwencji są niezbędne dla zapewnienia optymalnej opieki. 33
Ocena odpowiedzi na leczenie
Pielęgniarka powinna regularnie oceniać:
- Częstotliwość, intensywność i czas trwania bólów głowy
- Skuteczność zastosowanych metod leczenia, zarówno farmakologicznych, jak i niefarmakologicznych
- Występowanie działań niepożądanych leków
- Stosowanie się pacjenta do zaleceń (adherencja)
- Wpływ bólu głowy na codzienne funkcjonowanie pacjenta
Wskazania do konsultacji lekarskiej
Pielęgniarka powinna poinstruować pacjenta, aby skontaktował się z lekarzem, gdy:
- Bóle głowy stają się częstsze, intensywniejsze lub zmieniają swój charakter
- Pojawiają się nowe objawy towarzyszące, takie jak gorączka, osłabienie, drętwienie, zaburzenia widzenia, dezorientacja
- Leki przeciwbólowe są stosowane częściej niż 2-3 razy w tygodniu
- Ból głowy pojawia się nagle i jest bardzo silny („ból głowy jak uderzenie pioruna”)
- Ból głowy występuje po urazie głowy
- Ból budzi pacjenta ze snu
- Dotychczasowe leczenie przestaje być skuteczne
Wielodyscyplinarne podejście do leczenia
Skuteczne leczenie bólu głowy napięciowego, zwłaszcza w przypadkach przewlekłych, często wymaga współpracy specjalistów z różnych dziedzin. 437
Współpraca zespołu terapeutycznego
W skład zespołu terapeutycznego mogą wchodzić:
- Neurolog – specjalista w diagnostyce i leczeniu bólów głowy
- Pielęgniarka – koordynacja opieki, edukacja, monitorowanie
- Fizjoterapeuta – terapia manualna, ćwiczenia
- Psycholog/psychoterapeuta – terapia poznawczo-behawioralna, techniki radzenia sobie ze stresem
- Specjalista leczenia bólu – w przypadkach opornych na standardowe leczenie
- Dietetyk – modyfikacja diety, jeśli czynniki żywieniowe wpływają na bóle głowy
Nowoczesne metody leczenia
W przypadkach opornych na standardowe metody leczenia można rozważyć:
- Blokady nerwów – okolicznych, potylicznych
- Iniekcje w punkty spustowe – w obszarach napiętych mięśni
- Neuromodulacja – stymulacja nerwu potylicznego
- Terapie komplementarne i alternatywne – akupunktura, suplementy (magnez, ryboflawina, witamina D, koenzym Q10)
- Wspólne wizyty medyczne (grupa pacjentów) – dzielenie się doświadczeniami i wsparciem
Specjalne grupy pacjentów
Podejście do leczenia bólu głowy napięciowego może wymagać modyfikacji w zależności od specyficznych potrzeb różnych grup pacjentów. 43
Dzieci i nastolatki
W przypadku dzieci i nastolatków należy uwzględnić:
- Dostosowanie dawek leków do wieku i masy ciała
- Unikanie aspiryny ze względu na ryzyko zespołu Reye’a
- Skupienie się na technikach niefarmakologicznych
- Uwzględnienie wpływu stresu szkolnego i rówieśniczego
- Zaangażowanie rodziców w proces leczenia
- Uwaga na zaburzenia snu i nawyki związane z korzystaniem z urządzeń elektronicznych
Osoby starsze
U osób starszych szczególną uwagę należy zwrócić na:
- Interakcje lekowe i choroby współistniejące
- Niższe dawki początkowe leków, zwłaszcza trójcyklicznych leków przeciwdepresyjnych
- Ryzyko działań niepożądanych NLPZ (problemy żołądkowo-jelitowe, nerkowe)
- Bezpieczeństwo niektórych technik fizjoterapeutycznych
- Potrzeba wsparcia w zakresie modyfikacji stylu życia
Pacjenci z przewlekłym bólem głowy
W przypadku pacjentów z przewlekłym bólem głowy napięciowym, szczególnie istotne są:
- Kompleksowe podejście wielodyscyplinarne
- Profilaktyczne stosowanie leków
- Regularne monitorowanie skuteczności leczenia i dostosowywanie terapii
- Wsparcie psychologiczne – chroniczny ból może prowadzić do depresji i zaburzeń lękowych
- Zapobieganie bólom głowy z nadużywania leków przeciwbólowych
- Edukacja w zakresie długoterminowego zarządzania bólem
- Wsparcie w powrocie do optymalnego funkcjonowania społecznego i zawodowego
Podsumowanie roli pielęgniarki
Pielęgniarka odgrywa kluczową rolę w całościowym podejściu do pacjenta z bólem głowy napięciowym. 274
Kluczowe kompetencje pielęgniarki
Do głównych zadań pielęgniarki w opiece nad pacjentem z bólem głowy napięciowym należą:
- Ocena stanu pacjenta – dokładny wywiad, badanie fizykalne, monitorowanie objawów
- Planowanie opieki – określenie celów i interwencji dostosowanych do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta
- Interwencje – wdrażanie farmakologicznych i niefarmakologicznych metod łagodzenia bólu
- Edukacja – przekazywanie wiedzy na temat profilaktyki, samodzielnego radzenia sobie z bólem i rozpoznawania czynników wyzwalających
- Wsparcie – pomoc w radzeniu sobie z wpływem bólu na codzienne funkcjonowanie
- Koordynacja – współpraca z innymi członkami zespołu terapeutycznego
- Ewaluacja – ocena skuteczności wdrożonych interwencji i modyfikacja planu opieki w razie potrzeby
Znaczenie relacji terapeutycznej
Budowanie efektywnej relacji terapeutycznej jest istotnym elementem opieki nad pacjentem z bólem głowy napięciowym i obejmuje:
- Zrozumienie indywidualnej sytuacji pacjenta i jego obaw
- Aktywne słuchanie i empatyczne podejście
- Zaangażowanie pacjenta w proces decyzyjny dotyczący leczenia
- Regularne wizyty kontrolne i dostępność dla pacjenta
- Motywowanie do przestrzegania zaleceń i wprowadzania zdrowych nawyków
- Wzmacnianie poczucia sprawczości i kontroli nad dolegliwościami
Skuteczna opieka pielęgniarska nad pacjentem z bólem głowy napięciowym wymaga holistycznego podejścia, uwzględniającego nie tylko aspekty fizyczne, ale również psychologiczne i społeczne. Poprzez kompleksową ocenę, edukację, wsparcie w zarządzaniu bólem i profilaktykę, pielęgniarka może znacząco przyczynić się do poprawy jakości życia pacjentów cierpiących na ten powszechny problem zdrowotny. 4950
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Tension Headache: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8257-tension-headaches
Tension headaches are the most common headache type. Healthcare providers may call them tension-type headaches. There are home treatments for tension headaches, and healthcare providers may prescribe medication and other therapies that will ease tension headache pain and pressure. […] A tension headache is a headache that feels like there’s a tight band wrapped around your head that puts pressure on your forehead and temples. Healthcare providers may call them tension-type headaches. […] Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent a tension headache. And if home treatment doesn’t work, healthcare providers may have medications and other therapies to ease tension headache pressure. […] Treatments vary depending on the tension headache type. For example, if you have episodic headaches, your provider may recommend you start over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen sodium (Aleve).
- #2 Tension Headache Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments | UPMChttps://www.upmc.com/services/neurology/services/headache-center/tension-headache
Tension headaches affect women slightly more than men. […] The doctors at UPMC are headache experts and can give you ways to live pain-free. […] To help prevent tension headaches, you should: Drink lots of water. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Reduce stress. Do deep breathing techniques. Limit sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. Don’t smoke. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Don’t skip meals. Stay away from artificial sweeteners and preservatives. […] Your doctor may also suggest supplements to prevent tension headaches, such as: Magnesium. Riboflavin. Vitamin D. Coenzyme Q10. […] Things you can do to prevent or ease a tension headache include: Rest. Meditation. Mental health therapy. Slow, deep breathing. Hot shower. Apply moist heat behind your neck. Physical therapy. Massage. Light exercise. Ice packs. Use a low-firm pillow. […] Your doctor may prescribe antidepressant medicine to prevent chronic tension headaches. These drugs have analgesic actions that relieve pain even if you’re not depressed.
- #3https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/brain-spine-institute/brain-care-center/conditions-treatments/migraine-headache-disorders
Tension headaches come and go over time. Theyre the most common type of headache among teenagers and adults. Tension headaches cause mild to moderate pain that usually begins gradually and affects one or both sides of your head. Often it may feel like a belt is being tightened around your head. These symptoms may last only minutes or go on for days: […] Women are slightly more likely to have tension headaches than men.
- #4 Muscle Contraction Tension Headache – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562274/
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to manage tension-type headaches and coordinate a comprehensive care plan. […] TTH is characterized as recurrent, mild to moderate, bilateral, band-like, pressing or tightening, and not aggravated by routine physical activity or minor exertional activity, such as walking. […] The primary goal of chronic TTH therapy is to reduce headache frequency through preventive medications. […] Among pharmacologic treatments, the TCA amitriptyline is the most effective and well-studied. […] Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the primary treatment options for aborting TTH episodes. […] Certain types of supervised physical activity, psychological treatment, acupuncture or trigger point injection, physical therapy, manual joint mobilization techniques, electromyography biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral therapy have all proven effective based on identified benefits, certainty of evidence, and patient preferences. […] A strong physician-patient relationship is essential, as most patients benefit from consistent care with a single physician over time.
- #4 Muscle Contraction Tension Headache – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562274/
Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common type of primary headache. This condition is also sometimes referred to as „muscle contraction headache,” „stress headache,” or „psychomyogenic headache.” […] Management includes nonpharmacological approaches, such as stress reduction and physical therapy, along with pharmacologic treatments like analgesics and antidepressants for chronic cases. […] This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance learners’ competence in evaluating and managing TTH. Participants gain a broader grasp of the condition’s etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, evaluation, and treatment. […] Identify the etiology of tension headaches. […] Determine the evaluation steps for assessing tension headaches. […] Implement the management strategies available for tension headaches.
- #5 Tension-Type Headache | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2002/0901/p797.html
Tension-type headache typically causes pain that radiates in a band-like fashion bilaterally from the forehead to the occiput. Pain often radiates to the neck muscles and is described as tightness, pressure, or dull ache. […] Treatment of tension-type headache typically involves the use of over-the-counter analgesics. […] Amitriptyline is the most widely researched prophylactic agent for frequent headaches. […] Patients typically self-treat their tension-type headaches with OTC analgesics, caffeinated products, massage or chiropractic therapy for symptom relief. […] Treatment goals for patients with tension-type headache should include recommending effective OTC analgesic agents and discovering and ameliorating any circumstances that may be triggering the headaches or causing the patient concern.
- #6 Outpatient Primary Care Management of Headaches: Guidelines from the VA/DoD | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0900/p316.html
Ibuprofen and high-dose acetaminophen improve acute tension-type headaches. […] Amitriptyline effectively prevents tension-type headaches, reducing headache frequency and the need for abortive medications. Benefits are seen after three months of use. […] Tension-type headaches affect more than one-half of adults and last from 30 minutes to seven days. They present with at least two of the following characteristics: bilateral location, a squeezing or tightening sensation, mild to moderate intensity, and no change with physical activity. Nausea and vomiting are not present. Photophobia or phonophobia may be present, but normally not both. […] Physical therapy, specifically manual therapy, modestly reduces tension-type headache frequency. Other nonpharmacologic treatments are not effective.
- #7 Headaches: Causes, types, and treatmenthttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/73936
Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common form of headache, affecting three-fourths of the general population. Tension-type headache was previously called muscle contraction headache. It is associated with the muscles of the neck, face, and jaw. […] A 2020 study found that TTH is closely related to stress. […] A person with TTH may feel: as if they have a tight band around their head, a constant, dull ache on both sides of the head, pain spreading to or from the neck. […] Tension-type headaches may be episodic or chronic. Episodic attacks usually last for a few hours, though they can last for several days. When TTHs occur on 15 or more days per month for at least 3 months, they are considered chronic. […] It is crucial for a person to follow their doctors guidance to prevent medication overuse headaches.
- #8 Tension-type headachehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2190284/
Episodic tension-type headache is the most common cause of headache in the general population and is usually self managed. […] Chronic tension-type headache may be highly disabling and often prompts medical consultation. […] Diagnosis is clinical, based on widely accepted and validated criteria. […] Simple analgesics, especially aspirin, are used for acute treatment. […] Amitriptyline and biofeedback assisted relaxation training have the best evidence of effectiveness for headache prevention. […] Treatment for tension-type headache includes acute therapy for individual attacks and preventive treatment to minimise the number of attacks that occur. […] Acute attacks of tension-type headache are usually treated with simple analgesics. […] Daily preventive treatment should be considered for patients with frequent headaches or who respond poorly to abortive treatment alone.
- #9 Self-Care Management of Headacheshttps://www.uspharmacist.com/article/selfcare-management-of-headaches
Tension-type headaches, while less severe than some other types, are the most prevalent and are defined by a distinctive set of characteristics. […] Several risk factors have been associated with the development of tension-type headaches, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing these contributors. Individuals with a perception of poor overall health may be more susceptible to tension-type headaches. […] High levels of stress and the inability to unwind after work have been linked to tension-type headaches. Prolonged periods of stress and tension can contribute to the development of chronic headaches, underscoring the importance of effective stress-management strategies. […] Pharmacists play a pivotal role in ensuring that patients receive safe and informed treatment, extending beyond prescription medications to encompass comprehensive healthcare guidance.
- #10 Tension Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatmentshttps://www.healthline.com/health/tension-headache
A tension headache can feel like a tight band around your forehead. Most people have episodic headaches that occur one or two times per month on average. However, tension headaches can be chronic. […] A tension headache is the most common type of headache. It can cause mild, moderate, or intense pain behind your eyes and in your head and neck. […] Symptoms of a tension headache include: dull head pain, pressure around your forehead, tenderness around your forehead and scalp, difficulty focusing, irritability or fatigue, no nausea or vomiting with the above symptoms. […] You can start by drinking more water. You may be dehydrated and need to increase your water intake. […] If none of those strategies work, then you can take over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to get rid of a tension headache. However, these should only be used occasionally.
- #11 Tension headache â causes, symptoms and treatment | healthdirecthttps://www.healthdirect.gov.au/tension-headache
A tension headache is a feeling of tightness or pressure around your head. […] Tension headaches can be triggered by stress, dehydration, eye strain, caffeine withdrawal or poor posture. […] A tension headache will usually go away with over-the-counter pain medicines, rest, a heat pack or massage. […] Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and learning stress management techniques can help prevent tension headaches. […] You can ease tension headaches by taking over-the-counter pain-relief medicines, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin. […] Make sure not to take pain-relieving medicines more than 2 or 3 times a week this could make your headache worse and harder to treat. […] If you get tension headaches frequently, stress management techniques can help reduce how often your headache comes on. […] You can prevent tension headaches by making healthy lifestyle changes: Take time for relaxation and stress management techniques. […] Drink plenty of water. […] Get regular exercise. […] Get enough sleep. […] Eat a healthy, balanced diet. […] Improve your posture.
- #12 Tension-type headaches: Self-care measures for reliefhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tension-headache/in-depth/headaches/art-20047631
The nicotine in cigarette smoke reduces blood flow to the brain. It also triggers a reaction in the nerves at the back of the throat. These changes can lead to a headache. […] Stress and tension-type headaches often go hand in hand. […] Tense muscles can trigger tension-type headaches. Apply heat to relieve tense neck and shoulder muscles. […] Massage also can relieve muscle tension and sometimes headache pain. […] Try to practice these breathing exercises or another form of relaxation every day. […] A diary may help you learn what triggers your tension-type headaches. Note when your headaches start and your activities. […] Look for improvements in your headaches as you make additional healthy lifestyle changes.
- #13 Tension headache? Manage stress, not pain, experts say – University of Mississippi Medical Centerhttps://umc.edu/news/Miscellaneous/2020/October/October-CONSULT/CON102020D.html
Dr. Riddhiben Patel, UMMC associate professor of pediatric neurology and the states only certified pediatric headache medicine specialist, said shes seen an increasing number of patients complaining of headaches. […] Stress headaches or tension-type headaches are the most common headache disorder, according to the World Health Organization. […] Stress of any kind can cause tension-type headaches, Patel said. The pain is mild to moderate and does not get worse with routine physical activity. […] A tension-type headache is typically not accompanied by nausea or vomiting, but can be accompanied by increased sensitivity to light or sound. […] To lessen patients pressure and pain, Prem and Patel shared these seven tips for children and adults: Remove the triggers. If stress is causing headaches, removing that tension trigger is the first and best option.
- #14 Nursing care plan for headachehttps://nursipedia.com/nursing-care-plan-headache/
Headaches are one of the most common types of physical pain and can be very debilitating. It is important that nurses are able to assess, diagnose and treat headaches in order to provide appropriate care. A nursing care plan can help nurses to provide the best care possible as it outlines assessment, nursing diagnosis, outcomes, interventions, rationales, evaluation, and conclusion for headache-related issues. […] Once the assessment is complete, the nurse can identify the nursing diagnosis for the patients headache. The following are common nursing diagnoses for headaches: Pain related to the headache. Ineffective coping related to the triggers or exacerbations of the headache. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements due to lack of appetite or nausea associated with the headache. Knowledge deficit regarding the management of headache.
- #15 Headache & Migraine: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogetherhttps://www.nursetogether.com/headache-migraine-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
The most common type of headache is a stress headache or tension-type headache (TTH). This condition is described as mild to moderate pressing pain on the forehead in a band-like pattern that can last from several minutes to several days. […] Nursing interventions and care are essential for the patients recovery. In the following section, you will learn more about possible nursing interventions for a patient with a headache or migraine. […] Reducing symptoms and offering supportive care should be the main goals of treatment for primary headaches. Advise the patient to follow up with a neurologist or primary care physician for both preventive and therapeutic measures. […] Patients can learn to manage stress and tension with solutions such as: Deep breathing exercises, Muscle relaxation, Visualization techniques, Music therapy, Yoga, Regular exercise.
- #16 Tension Headache: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanentehttps://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.tension-headache-care-instructions.ut1840
Most headaches are tension headaches. Some people get them often, especially if they have a lot of stress in their lives. […] If you get a lot of these kind of headaches, it can help to talk to your doctor. You can work together to find the treatment that works best for you. […] Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. […] Talk to your doctor about how often to take medicine to treat your headache. If you take it too often, it can lead to more headaches. […] Pay attention to any new symptoms you have when you have a headache. These include a fever, weakness or numbness, vision changes, or confusion. They may be signs of a more serious problem. […] Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if: Your headaches get worse, happen more often, or change in some way.
- #17 Migraine and Cluster Headaches – LevelUpRNhttps://leveluprn.com/blogs/medical-surgical-nursing/nervous-6-migraine-cluster-headaches?srsltid=AfmBOorcFSoBo_t1JNyahsX-SGHIAw-wXIz4_Qg3Zy1ClaIx_Y0V3s-H
A migraine headache is a neurovascular disorder that causes unilateral (on one side) throbbing head pain. […] In terms of nursing care and patient teaching for migraines, you should instruct your patient to lay down in a dark, quiet environment if they are experiencing a migraine. This will help with the photophobia and phonophobia. They should also avoid triggers, so reducing their stress level if possible, and avoiding foods that may trigger a migraine. […] For patients who have recurring migraine headaches, prophylactic medications may be warranted. So the provider may prescribe things, such as antihypertensives or anticonvulsants, to help prevent the onset of migraine headaches.
- #18 Outpatient Primary Care Management of Headaches: Guidelines from the VA/DoD | AAFPhttps://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0900/p316.html
For acute medical treatment, only acetaminophen and ibuprofen have been studied. Acetaminophen at 1,000 mg and ibuprofen at 400 mg increase the likelihood of being pain free two hours later; lower doses of acetaminophen are not effective. […] OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections are not effective for tension-type headaches.
- #19 Patient education: Headache treatment in adults (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/headache-treatment-in-adults-beyond-the-basics/print
Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (sample brand names: Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (sample brand names: Aleve, Naprosyn) […] Acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) […] Aspirin […] Mild pain relievers are also available in combination with caffeine, which enhances the medication’s effect; an example is acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine (sample brand name: Excedrin). This combination may be recommended if a pain reliever alone does not relieve the headache. […] Pain relievers should not be used too often because overuse can lead to medication-overuse headaches or chronic daily headaches. If your headache responds to a pain reliever, you should continue taking these with each headache. However: […] Do not use pain relievers more than nine days per month on average or more than two doses per episode.
- #20 Tension-type headachehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2190284/
The best evidence of effectiveness from randomised controlled trials is for amitriptyline, usually in doses of 75-150 mg a day. […] An important responsibility of the physician is to monitor medication intake to prevent overuse. […] Preventive treatment should be considered when acute treatment is ineffective or overused or if headache occurs more than four times a month.
- #21https://bpac.org.nz/2017/headache.aspx
Referral to a physiotherapist should be considered for all patients with headaches with musculoskeletal involvement. Physiotherapists may use massage, mobilisation, manipulation and advise on home-based exercises. Initial exercises aim to teach the patient postural awareness, often to prevent a forward head posture and rounded shoulders, by activating the transverse abdominus muscles and bracing the core muscles. […] Naproxen, ibuprofen or aspirin are often sufficient for the treatment of tension-type headache. Paracetamol is less effective but may be preferable for some patients, e.g. those with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or reduced renal function. The risk of patients developing medicine overuse should be considered in those regularly using analgesics. […] For patients with tension-type headache on 15 days or more a month, i.e. chronic tension-type headache, a three week course of naproxen, 250-500 mg, twice daily, may be considered. This practice does increase the risk of medicine overuse headache, however, it can be helpful in breaking the cycle of recurring headaches where the patient responds to pain with analgesics.
- #22https://bpac.org.nz/2017/headache.aspx
A tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) may also be considered for the prophylaxis of recurrent tension-type headache (unapproved indication). Amitriptyline, initially 5-10 mg, one to two hours before bedtime and titrated slowly upwards if necessary (e.g. every three weeks), usually to a maintenance dose of no more than 50-75 mg, is often prescribed for headache prophylaxis, although nortriptyline may be better tolerated.
- #23 Patient education: Headache treatment in adults (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/headache-treatment-in-adults-beyond-the-basics/print
Preventive treatment â Preventive therapy is recommended for people with tension-type headaches that are frequent, such as those that occur nine or more days each month. Preventive therapy is also recommended when headaches are long-lasting or have a significant impact on a person’s ability to do their normal activities. […] Antidepressant medicines called tricyclics (TCAs) are often used to help prevent frequent tension headaches. Examples of TCAs include amitriptyline (used most commonly), nortriptyline, and protriptyline. The dose of TCAs used for people with headaches is typically much lower than that used for treating depression. It is believed that these drugs reduce pain perception when used in low doses, although it is not exactly clear how the medicines work. […] It is common to feel tired when you start taking TCAs; this is not always an undesirable side effect since it can help improve sleep if you take TCAs in the evening. Your healthcare provider may recommend taking amitriptyline or nortriptyline two hours before bedtime to prevent morning grogginess. If morning grogginess occurs, then the medication could be taken even earlier (around dinnertime). TCAs are generally started in low doses and increased gradually. Their full effect may not be seen for weeks to months.
- #24 Tension Headache Treatment & Management: Medical Care, Alternative Medicinehttps://emedicine.medscape.com/article/792384-treatment
Various modalities are used in the treatment of tension headaches. These include hot or cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, improvement of posture, trigger point injections, occipital nerve blocks, stretching, and relaxation techniques. […] Regular exercise, stretching, balanced meals, and adequate sleep may be part of a headache treatment program. […] Non-pharmacological treatments for headache include behavioral treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation, and biofeedback, as well as acupuncture and massage. […] Relaxation techniques such as meditation are effective for chronic headaches as measured by headache parameters. […] Acupuncture may be helpful for patients experiencing frequent or chronic TTH. […] According to several studies, massage may also be an effective therapy for individuals suffering from TTH. Massage can relieve tight muscles in the back of the head, neck, and shoulders, which may in turn relieve headache pain. […] A combination of therapy with stress re-education and biofeedback may be best for patients.
- #25 Tension-type headaches: Self-care measures for reliefhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tension-headache/in-depth/headaches/art-20047631
Headaches can interfere with daily life. But healthy lifestyle choices can help you head off the pain. Start with diet, exercise and relaxation. […] Medicines may relieve the pain. But simply taking good care of yourself may help prevent a headache. […] A healthy lifestyle can promote good overall health. It also may help prevent all types of headaches, including tension-type headaches. […] Exercise releases chemicals in the body that block pain signals to the brain. […] If you don’t fall asleep within 15 minutes, get up and read or do something soothing until you’re drowsy. […] Seeing a health care provider and getting treatment for sleep apnea can ease its symptoms. […] You can buy pain medicine at the store. But using this medicine more than nine days a month can make headaches harder to treat.
- #26 Tension Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatmentshttps://www.healthline.com/health/tension-headache
OTC drugs are sometimes not enough to treat recurring tension headaches. In such cases, a healthcare professional may give you a prescription for medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants, beta-blockers, divalproex sodium, indomethacin, ketorolac, a pain relief medication, naproxen. […] A healthcare professional may also prescribe an antidepressant, such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs can stabilize your brains levels of serotonin and can help you cope with stress. […] These classes can teach you ways to cope with stress and how to relieve tension. […] A headache diary can help you determine the cause of your tension headaches. […] Tension headaches often respond to treatment and rarely cause any permanent neurological damage. Still, chronic tension headaches can affect your quality of life. […] If it becomes a serious problem, talk with a healthcare professional.
- #27 03.09 Tension and Cluster Headaches | Free NURSING.com Courseshttps://nursing.com/lesson/03-09-tension-and-cluster-headaches
Tension headaches consist of tight pain in the head that is caused by stress or contracted muscles. […] Risk factors for tension headaches include stress, poor posture, anxiety or depression. […] Tension headaches can be managed with medications for pain and lifestyle changes. Medication that may be used include analgesics or NSAIDs. Lifestyle changes include improving posture, exercising and stretching, adjusting sleep schedules, and managing stress. […] It’s important to educate your patients with headaches on different things they can do to prevent them. They should work on managing their stress, stop smoking, stop drinking alcohol, and exercise. […] The priority nursing concepts for the patient with tension and cluster headaches include intracranial regulation, pharmacology, and patient education.
- #28 Headache & Migraine: Nursing Diagnoses, Care Plans, Assessment & Interventions | NurseTogetherhttps://www.nursetogether.com/headache-migraine-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
Educate the patient on triggers of headaches and migraines, such as: Bright lights, Certain odors, Poor sleep, Hormone fluctuations (menstruation), Foods (chocolate, cheese, wine). […] Finding and treating the underlying cause is essential to managing a secondary headache. This may include taking an antibiotic for an infection, receiving chiropractic care or physiotherapy for an injury, or managing a comorbidity. […] Medication-overuse headaches (also known as rebound headaches) occur from excessive use of medications to treat headache pain and are the most common type of secondary headache. A detoxification approach is used while receiving other preventative therapy to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
- #29 Managing tension headaches at home Information | Mount Sinai – New Yorkhttps://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/managing-tension-headaches-at-home
Hot or cold showers or baths may relieve a headache for some people. You may also want to rest in a quiet room with a cool cloth on your forehead. […] Gently massaging your head and neck muscles may provide relief. […] If your headaches are due to stress or anxiety, you may want to learn ways to relax. […] Over-the-counter pain medicine, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen, may relieve pain. […] Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. […] Follow your health care provider’s instructions about how to take your medicines. […] Knowing your headache triggers can help you avoid situations that cause your headaches. […] Review your diary with your provider to identify triggers or a pattern to your headaches. […] Lifestyle changes that may help include: Use a different pillow or change sleeping positions. […] If your provider prescribes medicines to prevent headaches or help with stress, follow instructions exactly on how to take them. […] Schedule an appointment or contact your provider if: Your headache pattern or pain changes. […] You need to take pain medicines more than 3 days a week.
- #30 Tension headache? Manage stress, not pain, experts say – University of Mississippi Medical Centerhttps://umc.edu/news/Miscellaneous/2020/October/October-CONSULT/CON102020D.html
Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Proper hydration (half an ounce for each pound you weigh, every day), nine to 10 hours of sleep each night, daily exercise and regular healthy meals will go a long way toward keeping headaches at bay, Patel and Prem said. […] Relax mentally. Letting go of stress can reduce the frequency of tension-type headaches. […] Limit screen time. Working at home or going to school online may make limiting screen time difficult, but even small breaks will make a difference, Prem said. […] Ask for help. A patients headache care team may need to include a psychiatrist or psychologist, Prem said, since headaches can often be a symptom of anxiety and depression. […] Limit the use of over-the-counter pain medications. Overusing over-the-counter pain medications can lead to medication overuse headaches, or rebound headaches, Patel and Prem said. […] Say no to stronger medications. Patients should stay away from combination therapies containing either butalbital, a barbiturate, or opioids for treatment of tension-type headaches because of the risk of tolerance, dependency, toxicity and medication overuse headaches, Patel said.
- #31 Headaches: Causes, types, and treatmenthttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/73936
Certain care strategies can help prevent headaches or ease the pain. A person may try: using a heat or ice pack against the head or neck, but avoiding extreme temperatures and never applying ice directly to the skin, avoiding stressors whenever possible and using healthy coping strategies for unavoidable stress, eating regular meals, taking care to maintain stable blood sugar levels, getting enough sleep by following a regular routine and keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, exercising regularly to boost overall health and lower stress, limiting alcohol intake and drinking plenty of water, taking breaks when working to stretch and prevent eye strain.
- #32https://bpac.org.nz/2017/headache.aspx
Tension-type headache is managed by identifying and avoiding causative factors, such as a non-ergonomic work station set-up; referral for physiotherapy may be appropriate if there is musculoskeletal involvement. Naproxen, ibuprofen or aspirin are the first-line pharmacological treatments; paracetamol can also be used. Prophylactic treatment with naproxen or a tricyclic antidepressant may be considered for patients with recurrent tension-type headaches. […] Patients should be encouraged to self-manage tension-type headaches as the first-line treatment. This includes self-monitoring of symptoms to identify avoidable triggers and adapting their lifestyle to avoid exacerbating symptoms by: maintaining good sleep hygiene, exercising regularly, maintaining good hydration and eating regularly, using relaxation and stress management techniques, e.g. diaphragmatic breathing or mindfulness, avoiding situations that can lead to musculoskeletal pain in the neck and shoulders, ensuring good posture while at computer workstations and taking regular breaks away from the screen, moderating caffeine intake.
- #33 Tension headache – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tension-headache/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353982
If you have regular headaches, your health care professional may give you a physical and a neurological exam. Your care professional works to pinpoint the type and cause of your headaches using these approaches. […] Your health care professional can work with you to find the right treatment for your headaches. […] Several medicines can help reduce the pain of a headache. They include medicines you can buy at the store without a prescription and medicines available with a prescription. […] Your health care professional may prescribe medicines that help you have fewer headaches or headaches that are less painful. Preventive medicines may help if you have regular headaches that aren’t relieved by pain medicine and other therapies. […] Your health care professional monitors your treatment to see how the preventive medicine is working. In the meantime, overusing pain relievers may interfere with the effects of the preventive medicines. […] Chronic pain can cause anxiety and depression. It also can affect your relationships, your productivity and the quality of your life. […] You may start by seeing your health care professional. Or you may be referred to a specialist with expertise in the nervous system, known as a neurologist.
- #34https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ut1840
Most headaches are tension headaches. Some people get them often, especially if they have a lot of stress in their lives. […] Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. […] Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed. If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine. […] Pay attention to any new symptoms you have when you have a headache. These include a fever, weakness or numbness, vision changes, or confusion. They may be signs of a more serious problem.
- #35https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ut1840
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if you have new or worse nausea and vomiting. You have a new or higher fever. Your headache gets much worse. […] Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you are not getting better after 2 days (48 hours).
- #36 How to Relieve Tension Headache Pain and Reduce Triggershttps://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/tension-headache-relief
Every day, roughly 16 million Americans suffer from a headache. For the majority of those folks, what theyre experiencing is a tension headache. […] While the specific cause of tension-type headaches is not known, the most common triggers include stress, alcohol, jaw clenching, tooth grinding, eye strain, caffeine, and sleep deprivation. […] Speak to your healthcare provider about medication treatments for your headaches. […] Other options for headache treatments that dont require prescriptions or over-the-counter medication include: […] If youre experiencing two or more tension headaches a week over a six-month period or are finding them disruptive to daily living, make an appointment to see your doctor. […] If you experience an abrupt, severe headache or one that causes changes to your vision, weakness, or a tingling or numbness youve never had before, seek emergency help.
- #37 Muscle Contraction Tension Headache – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562274/
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to manage tension-type headaches and coordinate a comprehensive care plan. […] TTH is characterized as recurrent, mild to moderate, bilateral, band-like, pressing or tightening, and not aggravated by routine physical activity or minor exertional activity, such as walking. […] The primary goal of chronic TTH therapy is to reduce headache frequency through preventive medications. […] Among pharmacologic treatments, the TCA amitriptyline is the most effective and well-studied. […] Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the primary treatment options for aborting TTH episodes. […] Certain types of supervised physical activity, psychological treatment, acupuncture or trigger point injection, physical therapy, manual joint mobilization techniques, electromyography biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral therapy have all proven effective based on identified benefits, certainty of evidence, and patient preferences. […] A strong physician-patient relationship is essential, as most patients benefit from consistent care with a single physician over time.
- #38 Headache | Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute | Condition | UT Southwestern Medical Centerhttps://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/headache/
UT Southwestern Medical Center takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating headaches, delivering treatment strategies tailored to each patients unique condition and preferences. […] Our headache team takes a multidisciplinary approach to each patient, bringing experts together from many areas of medicine to deliver compassionate care and the best outcomes possible for each patient. […] Our specialized clinics offer treatments including botulinum toxin injections and nerve blocks to manage various headache disorders. […] After the initial evaluation, UT Southwestern physicians partner with each patient to develop a personalized plan of care. […] Depending on each patients specific condition, our specialists might prescribe medications that halt the headache process after it has started, or preventive medications that reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
- #39 Headache and Migraine Care | Seattle & Bellevue | UW MedicineHeartMagnifying glass_1StethascopeReferralAppointment_1https://www.uwmedicine.org/specialties/neurosciences-institute/headache-migraine-care
A common type of headache that often causes dull, aching pain and a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead. Some people also experience tenderness on their scalp, neck or shoulder muscles. […] During your first visit, youâll meet with both a neurologist and a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. This ensures that multiple specialists are familiar with your diagnosis and ongoing treatment plan. […] Even though there isnât a one-size-fits-all solution for headaches, there are now more treatment options than ever before. The longer youâve struggled with headaches, the longer it may take to break the cycle and find the right combination of treatments for you. But you can rest assured weâll partner with you for as long as it takes you to feel better. […] Many of our patients benefit from shared medical visits (group visits). These visits, which bring together up to 10 people at a time, offer medical advice and encourage information-sharing. Theyâre billed to your medical insurance just like a regular office visit.
- #40 Headache Clinic | Stanford Health Carehttps://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-clinics/headache-clinic.html
Tension-type headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Its usually associated with muscle tightness in these areas. Unlike migraine, it doesnt cause nausea or light and sound sensitivity. […] Managing headaches is not just a matter of finding the right medication. A successful treatment plan begins with a proper diagnosis that leads to a comprehensive and personalized plan for each patient. Our team tailors a complete program focused on helping you prevent headaches and manage them when they do occur. […] While the Stanford Health Care Headache Clinic puts a great deal of emphasis on lifestyle modification, we use every tool in the box to help decrease the frequency, severity, and length (duration) of your headaches. These may include prescription medications, devices, and procedures. Whenever possible, we use evidence-based, nonmedication strategies such as complementary and integrative treatment approaches.
- #41 Headache Clinic | Stanford Health Carehttps://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-clinics/headache-clinic.html
Our experts will suggest immediate treatment options when you have an active headache. Medication is the cornerstone of treatment. We may recommend: Over-the-counter pain relief, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) […] We can recommend treatments and strategies to help minimize external and internal triggers that can impact headache. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Strategies to help prevent headaches may include: Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) therapies, Oral medications, Procedures such as nerve blocks, trigger point injections, and onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections. […] We also recommend CIM strategies to help reduce headaches, including: Dietary supplements, such as CoQ10, feverfew, magnesium, and riboflavin; Education on and referrals for physical therapy, acupuncture, biofeedback, and pain management; Lifestyle modifications, such as keeping a consistent schedule for meals, doing aerobic exercise, and getting enough sleep.
- #42 Headache | Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute | Condition | UT Southwestern Medical Centerhttps://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/headache/
In addition, UT Southwesterns specialists might also prescribe other approaches to treating and managing pain, such as: Acupuncture, Biofeedback therapy, Botox injections, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Emerging surgical treatments, Facet and epidural blocks, Headache education, Medication, Mindfulness meditation, Nerve blocks, Nutritional counseling, Occipital nerve stimulation, Physical therapy, Psychological services, Relaxation techniques, Stress management.
- #43 Headaches (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealthhttps://kidshealth.org/en/teens/headaches.html
The most common type of headache is a tension headache (also called a muscle-contraction headache). Tension headaches happen when stressed-out head or neck muscles squeeze too hard. This causes pain often described as: […] Most headaches will go away if a person rests or sleeps. When you get a headache, lie down in a cool, dark, quiet room and close your eyes. It may help to put a cool, moist cloth across your forehead or eyes. Relax. Breathe easily and deeply. […] If a headache doesn’t go away or it’s really bad, you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. You can buy these in drugstores under various brand names, and your drugstore may carry its own generic brand. Read the label to see how much to take and how often. If you have any questions about how much to take, check with your doctor. It’s a good idea to avoid taking aspirin for a headache because it may cause a rare but dangerous disease called Reye syndrome. […] Most headaches are not a sign that something more is wrong. But if your headaches are intense and happen often, there are lots of things a doctor can do, from recommending changes in your diet to prescribing medicine. You don’t have to put up with the pain!
- #44 Patient education: Headache treatment in adults (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/headache-treatment-in-adults-beyond-the-basics/print
If a pain reliever does not control your headache, talk to your healthcare provider for other suggestions. […] People with gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), ulcers, kidney disease, and bleeding conditions should not take products containing aspirin or NSAIDs. […] Combination medicines containing butalbital and opioids â Combinations of an opioid and a pain reliever are available but are generally not recommended since they are habit-forming and can increase the risk of medication-overuse headaches and chronic daily headaches. Even so, such medications may be considered in special situations where simple pain relievers are ineffective or cannot be used safely (eg, during the third trimester of pregnancy or comorbid peptic ulcers, severe kidney failure, or liver failure). Healthcare providers are careful when prescribing these medications in order to minimize the risk of misuse or addiction.
- #45 Tension headache Information | Mount Sinai – New Yorkhttps://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/tension-headache
A tension headache is the most common type of headache. It is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, and is often associated with muscle tightness in these areas. […] The goal is to treat your headache symptoms right away and to prevent headaches by avoiding or changing your triggers. A key step in doing this involves learning to manage your tension headaches at home by: […] Many people can treat their tension headaches with conservative therapy, such as relaxation or stress-management training, including: […] When needed, medicines that may relieve a tension headache include: […] Tension headaches often respond well to treatment. But if the headaches are long-term (chronic), they can interfere with life and work. […] Learn and practice stress management. Some people find relaxation exercises or meditation helpful. Biofeedback may help you improve the effect of doing relaxation exercises, and may be helpful for long-term (chronic) tension headache.
- #46 Headache Pain: When to Worry, What to Do – Harvard Health Publishing – Harvard Healthhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/headache-when-to-worry-what-to-do
Tension headaches occur in about three of every four adults, making them the most common of all headaches. […] The typical tension headache produces a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. […] If you get occasional tension-type headaches, you can take care of them yourself. […] If you get frequent tension-type headaches, try to identify triggers so you can avoid them. […] If you need more help, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain medication or a muscle relaxant to control headache pain. […] Many people with recurrent tension-type headaches can prevent attacks by taking a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil, generic). […] Fortunately, most people with tension-type headaches will do very well with simpler programs.
- #47 Nursing care plan for headachehttps://nursipedia.com/nursing-care-plan-headache/
The interventions for a patient with a headache should be individualized and specific. Common interventions for headache include: Maintain adequate hydration. Administer analgesic medications as prescribed. Encourage relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and guided imagery. Provide education on avoidance of triggers such as noise, bright lights, and stress. For migraine headaches, provide information on migraine medications and other treatments. […] A nursing care plan for headache is an important part of providing quality care for patients who are suffering from this debilitating condition. Assessment, diagnosis, outcomes,
- #48 Tension Headaches: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment | Airrostihttps://www.airrosti.com/injuries-we-treat/headaches/
We take the time needed for a thorough examination to find the underlying cause of your pain. […] Airrosti Providers use hands-on manual therapy and active rehab exercises to treat tension headaches, helping reduce pain and accelerate healing. […] Patients have shorter recovery time with an average of 3.2 visits over 2 weeks. […] Most cases are effectively managed with non-invasive treatments such as medications, lifestyle changes, stress management, Airrosti care, and physical therapy. […] Yes, self-care techniques and exercises can help reduce the frequency and intensity of tension headaches. […] It is generally not necessary to limit daily activity when experiencing tension headaches, but reducing stress-inducing activities or anything that worsens the headache can help.
- #49 Tension Headache: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8257-tension-headaches
If you have chronic tension headaches, your provider may prescribe antiseizure medications like gabapentin (Neurontin) or topiramate (Topamax, Topiragen), antidepressants like amitriptyline that relieve pain, alternative therapies like biofeedback, meditation or cognitive behavioral therapy to help manage stress, or physical therapy for sleep apnea or TMJ. […] Managing stress may be the most effective way to prevent a tension headache. […] If stress is the culprit, your provider also will recommend lifestyle changes and other things you can do to reduce stress and prevent tension headaches. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend prescription medication or physical therapy.
- #50https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disorders
Tension-type headaches (TTH) are described as pressure or tightness, often like a band around the head, sometimes spreading into or from the neck. They may be stress-related or associated with musculoskeletal problems in the neck. They often begin during the teenage years and affect 50% more women than men. […] Chronic TTH can be unremitting and is more disabling than episodic TTH. […] Many of those troubled by headaches do not receive effective diagnosis and care. Appropriate treatment of headache disorders requires training of health professionals, accurate diagnosis and recognition of the conditions, appropriate treatment with cost-effective medications, simple lifestyle modifications and patient education. […] Simple interventions to educate people on medication overuse headaches, migraine triggers and lifestyle modifications are highly effective. Restricting or eliminating alcohol, regular sleep and exercise schedules, healthy diets, staying hydrated and using a headache calendar to identify other triggers are often all that is needed to provide relief. […] Lack of knowledge among health care providers is the principal clinical barrier. Many people with headache disorders are not diagnosed and treated.