Often, the best defense is a good offense and this approach is frequently effective when trying to prevent tension headache. Identifying headache triggers and then attempting to avoid or modify those triggers can be a successful strategy to decrease or even eliminate a tension headache. Some people find that scheduled exercise and eating on a regular basis is beneficial. Learning and practicing relaxation techniques, including deep breathing exercises, directed relaxation of specific muscles, or meditation, can also be effective.
See your doctor if any of the following situations occur:
If a person experiences regular headaches or if they have changed in severity, location or frequency
If a person experiences a headache that is very different from his or her usual headaches
If previously helpful treatments are no longer effective
If someone is experiencing "The worst headache of my life" they need to be evaluated emergently.