A tension-type headache usually causes mild to moderate pressure or aching on both sides of the head. It is the most common primary headache disorder and may occur occasionally or repeatedly.
Symptoms
Typical features include:
- pressing or tightening pain rather than throbbing pain
- pain on both sides of the head
- mild to moderate intensity
- tenderness in the scalp, neck or shoulder muscles
- pain that is not usually made worse by routine physical activity
Nausea and vomiting are not typical. Some people may have sensitivity to light or sound, but usually not both at the same time.
Episodic and chronic tension-type headache
Tension-type headaches can be infrequent, frequent or chronic. Chronic tension-type headache occurs on 15 or more days per month for more than three months. Frequent headaches should be assessed because migraine, medication-overuse headache and other conditions can sometimes look similar.
Triggers
The exact cause is not fully understood. Stress, sleep disruption, prolonged muscle tension and other individual factors may contribute. Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns, including timing, duration, possible triggers and medication use.
What may help
- maintain regular sleep, meals and hydration
- take breaks from prolonged screen or desk work
- stay physically active as your health allows
- use relaxation or stress-management techniques when helpful
- address persistent neck or shoulder discomfort with an appropriate healthcare professional
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help occasional headaches when they are safe for you. Follow label directions. Frequent use of headache medication can itself contribute to medication-overuse headache, so recurring need for pain medicine should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Treatment for frequent headaches
If headaches are frequent or significantly affect daily life, a clinician can confirm the headache type and discuss preventive treatment. Management may include lifestyle measures, physical therapy, behavioral approaches and, for some people with chronic tension-type headache, prescription preventive medication.
When to seek medical care
Arrange an assessment for new or changing headaches, headaches that are becoming more frequent, headaches that interfere with normal activities, or a new headache beginning later in life.
Seek emergency care for a sudden extremely severe headache, headache after a significant head injury, or headache accompanied by weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, confusion, seizure, fainting, severe vision changes, high fever with a stiff neck, or another serious neurological symptom.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: 28 September 2026.
This information is general and does not replace diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.