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Tension Headache


Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

There are two types of tension headaches. Episodic tension headaches occur when the person experiences a stressful event. Chronic tension headaches are associated with contraction of the muscles in the head and neck.

What is going on in the body?

Episodic tension headaches follow a stressful event. Chronic tension headaches are associated with contraction of the muscles that stretch from the back of the neck over the top of the head.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Tension headaches are associated with muscle contractions, but there is no proof that the contractions cause the headache. The following are believed to contribute to tension headaches:

  • anxiety
  • depression
  • poor posture
  • psychological disorders
  • social concerns
  • stress

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