From the Research
The most effective treatment for tension headaches is a combination of over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and lifestyle modifications, including stress management techniques and regular physical activity, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Treatment Options
- Over-the-counter pain relievers:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 325-650mg every 4-6 hours
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 200-400mg every 4-6 hours
- Naproxen sodium (Aleve) at 220-440mg every 8-12 hours
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises or meditation for 10-15 minutes daily
- Regular physical activity (30 minutes most days)
- Maintaining proper hydration (at least 8 glasses of water daily)
- Ensuring adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly)
Preventive Measures
- Identifying and avoiding triggers such as poor posture, skipped meals, or certain foods
- Consulting a healthcare provider if headaches persist despite these measures or occur more than 15 days per month, as preventive medications or other treatments may be necessary, as recommended by 2 and 3.
Additional Considerations
- For individuals at a higher risk, such as those with renal insufficiency or risk of GI bleeding, paracetamol may be considered as a preferred option instead of ibuprofen, as suggested by 1.
- The combination of antidepressant medication and stress management therapy may be more effective than monotherapy for chronic tension-type headaches, as found in 4.