Tension – muscle contraction headaches
Nearly every person has experienced several episodes of tension-type headaches, as they are the most common type of headache experienced. Nearly 90% of headaches not related to disease are the tension-type. Sometimes termed "extra-cranial" because the source of the discomfort is outside of the skull, these headaches are thought to be the result of contraction of the muscles of the face, scalp and neck. Tension headaches are characterized by soreness or aching that is non-specific in location. Usually the discomfort is bilateral, or on both sides of the head and neck. Neck soreness, a band like pressure around the head, or an aching in the temples are often described. Frequently, individuals will gain some relief by massaging the sore muscles. Although muscle contraction headaches may be very severe, they are not to be confused with, or described as, "migraine headaches."There are numerous causes of muscle contraction/tension headaches. Illnesses that cause muscle soreness, such as the flu or other viral conditions, frequently cause contraction headaches that may be relieved by over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Other causes may include personal stress, anger, fatigue, eyestrain, or dehydration. Although medications are often successful in relieving these headaches, avoidance of the cause is the key to prevention. Often, rest, fluids and relaxation will eliminate the pain. A full description of tension headaches is available in the September 1, 2002 issue of American Family Physician in an article, Tension-Type Headache, a patient information handout "Tension Headaches," and an editorial, Editorial: "Tension-Type Headache: A Challenge for Family Physicians"
(published with permission in writing from:http://www.pilotfriend.com/aeromed/medical/aviation_medicine.htm)
