GETTING AHEAD OF YOUR TENSION HEADACHES

One of the most common forms of headaches is caused bytension. They can occur at any age, but are most common in adults andadolescents. If your headache occurs on a regular basis, say a few times a weekfor several months, your condition is considered chronic. These can occur whenneck and scalp muscles become tense, or contract. The muscle contractions canbe a response to stress, depression, a head injury, and anxiety.

Activities like sitting at your desk all day at a computer causesthe head to be held in one position for a long time, and this lack of movement cancause a headache. Sleeping in a cold room or with your neck in an abnormalposition can also trigger a tension headache.

Major causes of tension headaches include:

· Alcohol use

· Caffeine (too much or withdrawal)

· Colds, the flu, or a sinus infection

· Dental problems such as jaw clenching or teethgrinding

· Eye strain

· Excessive smoking

· Fatigue or overexertion

Tension headaches are not associated with brain diseases butcan cause a wide range of afflictions, including a disturbance in sleeppatterns and flare-ups when you are active. Here are some tips on preventingtension headaches:

· Keep warm if the headache is associated withcold.

· Use a different pillow or change sleepingpositions.

· Practice good posture when reading, working, ordoing other activities.

· Exercise the neck and shoulders frequently whentyping, working on computers, or doing other close work.

· Get plenty of sleep and rest.

Therapeutic massage of tense and sore muscles will alsohelp.

Look into relaxation or stress-management training,biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, or acupuncture, which will helprelieve chronic headaches.

Keep in mind that pain medications only relieve headachesymptoms for a short period of time. After a while, they do not work as well orthey do not relieve headaches for as long. Overuse of pain medications duringmost weeks can lead to rebound headaches, headaches that keep coming back.