Back
Print 

Tension Headache Triggers

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

Overview

Some common triggers for tension headaches are physical and emotional stress.

Sometimes stress is caused by conditions such as anxiety and depression. If you think you may have anxiety or depression, talk with your doctor. If you treat these conditions, you may get tension headaches less often.

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

  • Having conflicts within your family or at work or school.
  • Not getting enough sleep or relaxation.
  • Hungry.

Other possible tension headache triggers include:

  • Eyestrain from working at a computer.
  • Neck strain from poor posture, your work environment, or injury.
  • Strain in the chewing muscles of your jaw. This can happen if you grind or clench your teeth.
  • Muscle tension in your shoulders and upper back.

Credits

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: December 20, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.