Tension headache

Definition

  • 1. Headache lasting from 30 min to 7 d
  • 2. Headache has at least two of the following characteristics:
    • a. Bilateral location
    • Pressure or tightening (nonpulsating quality)
    • Mild or moderate intensity
    • Not aggravated by routine physical activity such as walking
  • 3. Both of the following:
    • a. No nausea or vomiting (anorexia may occur)
    • b. No more than one of photophobia or phonophobia
  • 4. Not attributed to another disorder

Diagnosis

Work-Up

Differential Diagnosis

Headache

Common

Killers

Maimers

Others

Aseptic Meningitis

Treatment

  • NSAIDs
  • Consider treating severe tension HA like a migraine HA (can be difficult to distinguish)

Disposition

  • Outpatient

See Also

Source

  • Tintinalli
  • International Headache Society Diagnostic Criteria