Chronic tension-type headache

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2009 Dec;13(6):479-83. doi: 10.1007/s11916-009-0077-y.

Abstract

Tension-type headache is the most common headache type worldwide. Chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) affects 2% to 3% of patients, yet it represents the least talked about subtype of chronic daily headache. There is much debate in the headache community on whether CTTH exists as its own entity or is a milder form of chronic migraine (CM), because there are similarities and differences between the two headache forms. This article reviews CTTH, as well as the current pathophysiology and treatment, and discusses controversial issues in the diagnosis of CTTH and CM.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / diagnosis
  • Migraine Disorders / physiopathology
  • Migraine Disorders / therapy
  • Tension-Type Headache / diagnosis*
  • Tension-Type Headache / drug therapy*
  • Tension-Type Headache / physiopathology*