Read up on Headache, chronic tension type treatment options at Consumer Reports Health.

Headache, chronic tension type

Key points about treatments

There are good treatments available for chronic tension headache. You and your doctor should be able to find a treatment that works for you. The treatment may not get rid of all your headaches, but it can help you feel a lot better.

Doctors say you have chronic tension headache when you have tension headaches for about 15 days a month for at least three months.

Key messages about treatments for chronic tension headache

The antidepressant drugs amitriptyline and mirtazapine (brand name Remeron) can both help with chronic tension headache.
A talking treatment called

cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of talking treatment (psychotherapy). It is based on the idea that the negative thoughts and beliefs people have play an important role in how they feel and how they act. CBT helps people identify, look at and change unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

cognitive behavioral therapy might also help.
If you've been taking lots of painkillers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, you should cut down. Taking painkillers more than two or three times a week can make headaches worse.
You shouldn't take

tranquilizer
A tranquilizer is a drug that can help you relax and feel less anxious.

tranquilizers such as diazepam. They may help you relax, but they have serious side effects. And tranquilizers can cause unpleasant symptoms when you try to stop taking them.

This information was last updated on May 29, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
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