We don't know exactly where they come from. Tension headaches last between half an hour and a week. They occur at the temples or behind the forehead and the head feels like it is in a vice. In contrast to migraines, this type of headache is rarely so severe that it completely incapacitates the sufferer.

Movement loosens the tense muscles

For headaches caused by tension, a nice walk in the fresh air will clear your head. The swinging of the arms also loosens tense muscles in the neck and shoulders. Swimming or relaxation exercises for a tense neck can also help.

Tension headaches: drink mineral water at the first sign

A lack of fluids can often be the cause of headaches. It is best to drink two glasses of water at the first sign.

Acupressure shortens the duration of the pain

The body has several acupressure points. Pressing these so-called calming points relieves tension headaches and shortens their duration. Here's how it works: The first point is located in the middle of the bridge of the nose. Press here with your thumb and index finger. The second point is located behind the ears - press in the hollows behind the earlobes to relieve the pain. Another two points are located in the middle above the eyebrows: press with your fingertips here too. If the respective point is very sensitive, it should only be lightly pressed or massaged for 30 seconds, otherwise the acupressure lasts ten to 15 seconds with firm pressure.

Rest and relaxation can work wonders

If you have the opportunity to lie down, you should do so. Tension headaches are often triggered by stress, and a little rest can work wonders. If you can't lie down: stand up briefly, stand by an open window and take a deep breath.

Blow-dry your neck to relieve the throbbing in your head

Let the air flow at a moderately warm temperature circle your neck, shoulders and the back of your head for a few minutes. This relaxes the tense neck muscles and relieves the headache.

Cold gel pad or peppermint oil on the forehead

Place a cool pack on your forehead, temples or neck for one minute. Then remove for three minutes and repeat. Or apply a drop of peppermint oil (pharmacy) to the pain points, which helps just as well as a tablet: the herbal active ingredient activates the body's own pain defense systems via the skin.

Tension headaches: heat works wonders

A hot bath relieves tension in the shoulders and neck, which can radiate painfully into the head - heat can work wonders, especially for tension headaches. According to the experts, the bath water should be around 38 degrees and the bath should last around 20 minutes to achieve the greatest possible relaxation. Adding rosemary, arnica, spruce or hay flowers (pharmacy or health food store) further enhances the circulation-promoting and soothing effect. The nasty headache usually disappears all by itself during the relaxing bath.