Tension headache triggers

The most common triggers for tension headaches are physical and emotional stress. Stress may result from conditions such as anxiety and depression. If you think you may have anxiety or depression, talk with your doctor. Proper treatment of these conditions may reduce the frequency and severity of your tension headaches, as well as relieve your symptoms of depression or anxiety.

If you have tension headaches, ask yourself whether you are:

• Having conflicts within your family or at work or school.
• Suffering from a lack of sleep or relaxation.

Other possible tension headache triggers may include:

• Excessive glare.
• Neck strain from poor posture, your work environment, or injury.
• Strain in the chewing muscles of the jaw from grinding or clenching your teeth.