Dr. Curtis Cripe: Information on Tension Headaches

Dr. Curtis Cripe Discusses Tension Headaches and Its Treatment

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According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, the common headache has a name, and it is called tension headache.

Tension headaches are typically described as mild to moderate pain. They can be felt behind the eyes, head, and neck. Many patients often compare the pain to wearing a tight headband.

Today, Dr. Curtis Cripe explains more about tension headaches. He talks about possible causes, symptoms, and treatment.

One major factor that often comes out as a likely cause of tension headaches is muscle contractions in the head and neck regions. Other possible causes are stress and hectic activities. Dr. Curtis Cripe notes that even staring at a computer screen and driving for extended periods can cause tension headaches.

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People who experience it usually feel dull, aching pain that pushes around the head like a tight band. They also mention a marked tenderness in the scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles.

Tension headache has two categories, notes Dr. Curtis Cripe. The first is "episodic tension headache." This occurs for less than 15 days a month for three months. The second is "chronic tension headache," which happens for 15 or more days a month for three months.

The following can be done to treat tension headaches, according to Dr. Curtis Cripe: Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily and sleep and wake at the same time each day. Also, Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions that it's important not to skip meals, especially breakfast. You should also rest in a quiet and dark room. Managing your stress with relaxation exercises and taking the prescribed medication can alleviate the pain, too.

Finally, Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions avoiding things that may trigger a tension headache, ranging from eating certain foods to alcohol to staying up late at night.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is head of research and development at the NTL Group, specializing in developing brain-based technology for healing and repairing neurological dysfunctions. He has published two peer-reviewed papers and wrote two book chapters on neurotherapy and neuroengineering. For more blogs like this, click here.