Stressful Times Don’t Need to Equal Stress Headaches

Do you dread coming to the close of a stressful, busy time knowing that a headache will follow? Do your fun, busy times include a trip to the medicine cabinet for a little Tylenol or Ibuprofen to relieve your headache? Most people experience headaches, but some people definitely suffer more than others.

There are many different kinds of headaches. You have probably heard of migraine, tension-type and cluster headaches. These 3 kinds of headaches have no known underlying cause. Tension type headaches are also sometimes called stress headaches. Multiple other medical issues can cause headaches as well. Because tension-type headaches are the most common cause of headaches, we will focus on them in this article.

Tension headaches are generally described as a constant, dull, aching pain on both sides of the head. Generally, they begin gradually and often start at midday. Pain is usually mild to moderately intense. Some people also describe a tight feeling in their head or neck muscles. Tension-type headaches seem to be triggered by poor posture, stress, anxiety, depression, skipping meals, hormonal changes, lack of physical activity, overusing headache medications and medications used to treat depression or high blood pressure.

Although the exact cause for tension-type headaches is unknown, some researchers believe that they are the result of changes in brain chemicals-serotonin, endorphins and others- that help nerves communicate. These changes are similar to those found with migraine headaches. Consequently, some researchers believe that migraines and tension-type headaches may be related.

Tension-type headaches may last anywhere from 30 minutes to an entire week. You may wonder what options you have to effectively relieve these headaches. Many people turn to over the counter medications including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naproxen) for relief. These are generally effective if used when the headache is mild. Combination medications like Excedrin and prescription drugs may be more effective for more severe headaches. However, be aware that using these types of medications regularly more than twice a week may cause rebound or chronic daily headaches.

Another option for treatment is MyoNatural cream. Those who have used the cream for headaches report they experience relief within minutes of application to the tender areas of the neck and head.. The cream has also been helpful to some in managing the painful areas associated with poor posture, stress, lack of physical activity, past trauma and overworked muscles that can contribute to headaches.

Other non-cream or medicinal options for treatment include rest, ice packs, and a long hot shower. Massage is sometimes helpful to relieve the muscle tension associated with the headaches and relieving muscle tension sometimes relieves the pain. Healthy eating, stress management, regular exercise and perfecting your posture may also be helpful in relieving regular headaches. Hopefully, a few of these options may be helpful in managing your headache pain.