what causes tension headache

Tension headaches are primarily caused by muscle tension and contraction in the neck and scalp regions, often as a response to physical or emotional stress, anxiety, or depression. Factors such as poor posture, sleep disturbances, eye strain, excessive caffeine use or withdrawal, alcohol use, and certain activities that require holding the head in one position for a long time can also trigger these headaches. Additionally, muscle tightness and myofascial trigger points in the head and neck muscles contribute to the pain. Sleep problems and mental stress are significant contributors, and there may be central nervous system sensitization involved in chronic cases. Overall, tension headaches are linked to both muscular and environmental triggers that increase muscle tension and stress responses in the upper body.