tension headache relief - #18985

I’ve been experiencing frequent tension headaches for the past several months, and they seem to occur most often after a long day of work or during periods of stress. These headaches are different from migraines—they’re more of a constant dull ache around my head, especially near the forehead and temples. I’m trying to find ways to relieve the pain, but I’m unsure what methods are most effective. Could you explain what tension headaches are, why they occur, and what the best treatments are for providing relief? From what I understand, tension headaches are often caused by muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, which leads to a tight feeling around the head. How do stress, poor posture, or other factors contribute to the development of these headaches? What happens in the body during a tension headache, and why does the pain often feel like a constant pressure or tightness? What are the most common treatments for tension headaches? I’ve tried over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, but they don’t always provide lasting relief. Are there other medications or therapies that work better for tension headaches, such as muscle relaxants, prescription pain medications, or antidepressants? How effective are these treatments in preventing the headaches from occurring in the first place? I’ve also heard that lifestyle changes can help with tension headaches. Is it true that regular exercise, improved sleep hygiene, or relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help reduce the frequency and severity of these headaches? How do stress management strategies, like deep breathing exercises, contribute to preventing these headaches? Lastly, when should I seek medical help for my tension headaches? If the headaches become more frequent or severe, could they be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a neurological issue or a secondary headache disorder? How do doctors assess the underlying causes of tension headaches, and what treatments are available if they become chronic or resistant to standard therapies?