What is the recommended treatment for tension headaches?

The recommended treatment for tension headaches is over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics. Tension-type headaches are often characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head, and they are typically managed effectively with analgesics such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin, which are readily available without a prescription. These medications target the pain and help alleviate the discomfort that the patient experiences during a tension headache.

OTC analgesics work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals in the brain, providing quick relief for many sufferers. They are generally considered the first-line therapy due to their effectiveness and minimal side effects when used as directed.

In contrast, narcotic analgesics are not recommended for tension headaches due to the potential for addiction and the lack of evidence supporting their efficacy in this type of headache. Muscle relaxants might be considered if there is significant muscle tension contributing to the headache, but they are not the first-line treatment. Antidepressants can be used in some chronic headache conditions, especially if there’s an underlying component like anxiety or depression, but they are not appropriate for treating acute episodes of tension headaches.

Thus, OTC analgesics are favored for their accessibility, safety profile, and effectiveness in relieving the symptoms of tension-type headaches.