Tension headache treatment options?

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Multiple Choice

Tension headache treatment options?

NSAIDs are the best option for acute relief of a tension-type headache. They work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and reducing prostaglandin production, which lowers peripheral sensitization and inflammation that contribute to the headache, providing prompt analgesia for mild-to-moderate tension-type pain. Nonpharmacologic strategies like relaxation exercises are valuable as adjuncts and for prevention, but they don’t offer the same immediate pain relief as NSAIDs during an acute episode. Antidepressants, such as tricyclics, are more commonly used for prevention in chronic or frequent tension-type headaches, not for an acute attack. Triptans target migraine mechanisms and are not typically effective for tension-type headaches.

NSAIDs are the best option for acute relief of a tension-type headache. They work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and reducing prostaglandin production, which lowers peripheral sensitization and inflammation that contribute to the headache, providing prompt analgesia for mild-to-moderate tension-type pain. Nonpharmacologic strategies like relaxation exercises are valuable as adjuncts and for prevention, but they don’t offer the same immediate pain relief as NSAIDs during an acute episode. Antidepressants, such as tricyclics, are more commonly used for prevention in chronic or frequent tension-type headaches, not for an acute attack. Triptans target migraine mechanisms and are not typically effective for tension-type headaches.

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