DefinitionA tension headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, usually associated with muscle tightness in these areas.See also:Cluster headacheHeadacheMigraine headacheMixed tension migraineAlternative NamesMuscle contraction headache; Headache - benign; Headache - tension; Chronic headaches - tension; Rebound headaches - tensionCauses, incidence, and risk factorsTension headaches are one of the most common forms of headaches. They may occur at any age, but are most common in adults and adolescents.If a headache occurs two or more times a week for several months or longer, the condition is considered chronic. Chronic daily headaches can result from the under- or over-treatment of a primary headache. For example, patients who take pain medication more than 3 days a week on