G44.20

Clinical Causes: Stress and emotional strain Poor posture Eye strain from prolonged screen use Physical fatigue or exhaustion Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns Dehydration Skipping meals Muscle tension due to anxiety or depression Neck or shoulder muscle strain

Key Symptoms: A dull, aching pain predominantly on both sides of the head Feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck Mild to moderate intensity of headache Pain that develops gradually and persists for hours or days Sensations of muscle tightness in the scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles No accompanying nausea or vomiting in most cases Sensitivity to light or sound may be present but usually is mild Absence of neurological symptoms such as visual disturbances or weakness

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of a tension-type headache involves a thorough clinical evaluation. Healthcare providers typically review the patient's medical history and symptoms, and perform a physical and neurological examination. Since tension headaches are diagnosed based on their characteristic presentation, there are no specific laboratory tests for this condition. However, if the headache pattern changes or if neurological symptoms develop, further investigations like imaging studies (e.g., MRI or CT scan) may be recommended to rule out other causes.

Treatment Protocols: Stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, or yoga Improving posture and ergonomics, especially during work or screen time Regular physical activity to reduce muscle tension Adequate hydration and maintaining consistent eating schedules Ensuring consistent, quality sleep patterns Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Physical therapy or massage therapy for muscle relaxation Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in cases linked to stress or emotional factors Avoiding known triggers when possible