Tension headache

G44.2/G93.2

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Tension headaches are described as a tight band around the head and is generally worse in the afternoon. Occurs over the back of the head, but may extend over the entire head.

GENERAL MEASURES

• Consider use of relaxation techniques.
• Exclude medication overuse headache.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

• Amitriptyline, oral, 10–75 mg at night.

REFERRAL

• Atypical pain and/or focal neurological signs and symptoms, suggestive of alternate diagnosis.
• Poor response to therapy.