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  2. Aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen
    • According to 2 sources
    Use over-the-counter medicines: Aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be quite effective for episodic tension headaches. Consider drug-free treatment: Try massage therapy, chiropractic treatment, physical therapy or acupuncture.
    When needed, medicines that may relieve a tension headache include: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen Narcotic pain relievers are generally not recommended Muscle relaxers Tricyclic antidepressants to prevent recurrences
     
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  4. Also known as: stress headache
    Content medically reviewed by
    Dr. Karthikeya T Mverified specialist
    MD, Internal Medicine
    View full profile onLinkedIn logoLinkedIn
    One or more of these treatment options may be suggested by your provider.
    Usually, tension headaches do not require medical attention.
    Medication

    Analgesics: To reduce headaches.

    Aspirin . ibuprofen . naproxen


    Serotonin receptor agonists: To reduce both migraines and episodic tension headaches.

    Triptan


    Tricyclic antidepressants: To prevent the headaches.

    Amitriptyline

    Therapy

    Massage therapy:To relax the tensed muscles.

    Biofeedback therapy:To control certain body responses that in turn help to reduce pain.

    Cognitive behavior therapy:To manage stress.

    Treatment Reports

    Treatments (medications, procedure, etc.) and effectiveness reported by people on Patientslikeme.

    Treatment
    Effectiveness Graph
    (1)
    (1)
    (1)
    Last Update : 2024-05-13.
    Major
    Moderate
    Mild
    None
    Can't Tell
    Self-care

    Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

    Placing ice packs on the head to relieve pain.

    Maintain a good posture.

    Keep muscles active.

    Practise yoga and meditation.

    Nutrition

    Foods to eat:

    • Plenty of vegetables such as broccoli, kales, spinach
    • Plenty of fruits such as apples, pineapples, melon, kiwi fruit

    Foods to avoid:

    • Alcohol
    • Caffeine containing drinks such as coffee or tea
    • Excessive sugar

    Specialist To Consult

    Emergency medicine specialist

    Specializes in identifying and managing illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention.

    Source: Focus Medica . For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice. Learn more
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  5. Tension headache - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic

     
  6. Best medication for headache: Types, doses, and more …

    WEBFeb 13, 2023 · A person may experience tension or migraine headaches. While someone can usually treat headaches with OTC pain relievers, …

  7. What can one take to relieve tension headaches?

    Answered by verified global health professionals

    Dr. Mayank Saxena

    Dr. Mayank Saxena community page Doctor of Medicine (MBBS) · 1 years of exp

    There are several things you can take to relieve tension headaches, ranging from over-the-counter medications to home remedies and lifestyle changes. Some remedies include over-the-counter pain medications, home remedies such as diet changes and regular exercise.

    See all questions on Tension Headache

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  8. How to Get Rid of a Tension Headache - GoodRx

    WEBDec 15, 2022 · Key takeaways: Tension headaches cause dull pain on both sides of the head and last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Medications — like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin — can relieve tension …

  9. Tylenol or Advil: Which Pain Reliever Is Best for …

    WEBJul 6, 2024 · Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil (ibuprofen) can both treat headaches but work differently. While Tylenol and Advil both have …

    • Estimated Reading Time: 8 mins
  10. Tension Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and …

    WEBMar 8, 2023 · Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, caused by stress, poor posture, or other triggers. Learn how to prevent, …

    • Estimated Reading Time: 5 mins
    • Tension Headache Treatment: Painkillers, Preventive …

      WEBNov 12, 2017 · WebMD explains the treatments for tension headaches, including over-the-counter drugs, biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, and stress reduction techniques.

    • Tension Headache: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms

      WEBNov 9, 2023 · Learn about tension headaches, the most common type of headache, and how to prevent and treat them. Find out what medications, therapies and home remedies can help ease tension headache pain and …