When is a Headache More Than a Headache?
Improved
6139 HealthChanged
3797 LivesSaved
3584 Lives0 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More
Causes
Tension headaches may occur when muscles in the neck, face, and scalp contract, which produce pain. The precise cause of this muscle contraction is unknown. Factors that may contribute to tension headache include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eyestrain
- Poor posture
- Injuries or arthritis of the neck area
- Temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ)
- Chemical imbalances in the brain
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Your risk of getting a tension headache increases with:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sex: female
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Sleep apnea
- Medications
- Sleep disruption
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.