Your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and examine you. No single test can confirm that a headache is a tension headache. The diagnosis is based on your symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam. Often it is hard to know if a headache is a tension headache or a mild migraine headache. If the pain continues, your health care provider might refer you to a physical therapist or prescribe a stronger pain reliever.
Symptoms usually last a few hours to a day.
Rest in a quiet, dark room until symptoms lessen or go away. Take a pain reliever such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or other medicine your health care provider recommends or prescribes. Do this as soon as you notice symptoms. Recognizing early warning signs of headache and starting treatment right away is crucial to preventing pain. Don't drink a lot of alcohol.