Tension Headache, Chronic:
Information for adults

Chronic tension headache is a syndrome of headaches that are mild to moderate in intensity, involve "tightness" or "pressure" on both sides of the head, and are not aggravated by routine physical activity. Nausea, vomiting, and light/sound sensitivity are usually not present and, if so, are mild and infrequent. The headache most often starts in the back of the head or neck, although it can start anywhere, and moves to include the whole head. It may worsen as the day goes on. Headaches of this description must be present for 15 or more days of a month for at least 3 months. When more severe, the headache can be continuous. Chronic tension headache often evolves from episodic tension headache, which is very similar in description but far less frequent.

Immediately seek medical attention if you or someone you are caring for experiences any of the following:

• Stiff neck and a high fever associated with headache
• Sudden onset of a severe headache
• Loss of motor function, the ability to think clearly, or convulsions associated with headache
• Head injury
• Increased intensity and/or frequency of headaches