Tension Headaches :
Of all the types of headaches, the tension type is the most common. About 80 per cent people who suffer frequent headaches are victims of tension headaches.

In most cases, tension headache is a dull, steady ache or a feeling of tightness or pressure on both sides of the head. The symptoms may be felt in the back of the neck and the head, in the temples, or as if there were a too tight band circling the forehead.

Tension headaches result from the contraction of neck and scalp muscles. One cause of this muscle contraction is a response to stress, depression or anxiety. Any activity that causes the head to be held in one position for a long time without moving can cause such headaches. Such activities include typing or the use of computers, fine work with the hands, and the use of a microscope. Sleeping in a cold room or sleeping with the neck in an abnormal position can also trigger this type of headache.

Other causes include eye-strain, fatigue, alcohol use, excessive smoking, excessive caffeine use, sinus infection,migrains, nasal congestion, over-exertion, colds and influenza. Tension headaches are not associated with structural lesions in the brain.

What can be done?
The goal is to relieve symptoms and prevent future headaches. Prevention is the best treatment. If possible, remove or control precipitating factors.

Avoid stress :
As stress is the prime culprit in such headaches, try and avoid stress. Learn and practice stress management strategies. Practise Pranayam. Pranayam is a set of rhythmic breathing exercises in Yoga that helps in harmonizing the body and releasing stress.

Maintain the biorhythm :
Biorhythm is an inherent rhythm that appears to control or initiate various biological processes, sleep, hunger, etc. Avoid changing your natural body-rhythms.

Adjust accordingly
There may be 24 hours in a day, but your mood and energy level can't keep up with the clock all day. By adjusting your routine slightly you may be able to eliminate some of the stress from your life. For example, save routine tasks for periods when your energy is at its lowest point. Peak hours should be left for more demanding or enjoyable projects.

Exercise regularly :
Use good posture when reading, working, or doing other activities that may cause headache. Exercise the neck and shoulders frequently when typing, working on computers, or doing stressful work. Adequate sleep and rest or massage of sore muscles can help reduce the chance of a headache

Homeopathic medicine :
When an overworked mind or body forms a reason for headaches, homoeopathic medicine can be of great help. Conditions arising out of mental and physical fatigue can be improved by it.