Tension headaches

[Gilly61]

I’ve been having headaches most days since March this year. Mostly in my forehead & not awful pain but I’m aware my head hurts. I have been to my surgery at least 4 times & still no explanation as to what’s causing them.

I do have pulsating tinnitus to which doesn’t help as it keeps me awake which probably contributes to my headaches I’m waiting to see an ENT dr for this but expect a very long wait.

After a recent visit the see my gp she didn’t seem at all concerned @ said it sounds like tension headaches or overuse of otc painkillers. She suggested acupuncture & told me this will have to be with a private clinic as the nhs no longer offer this service.

Before I go down this route has anyone used acupuncture for headaches & does it help. Thanks

[Sugaree]

hi gilly, I have had migraines for many years. I also get cervicogenic headaches from arthritis in neck and tension headaches. I have tried alot of alternative treatments from chiropractor to anti inflammatory diets. My friend tried acupuncture for her headaches and was disappointed. Another friend swears by botox for headaches. Everyone is different and anything is worth a try. I haven’t been headache free for decades. The one prescription that helps all of my headaches is butalbital . I know there is a different name for it in UK. It’s not an opioid,been around for years. My grandmother used it. Maybe you can try the acupuncture first or ask about butalbital. I wish you luck and for you to get rid of your headache.

[Gilly61 in reply to Sugaree]

Thanks for your reply😀

[Hephzibar]

I struggle with tension and stress headaches and have monthly Accupuncture and osteopathy sessions to try and keep the muscle tension in my upper back and shoulders at bay. I find both useful and really value my hour long Accupuncture sessions to de-stress and to have someone spending time and caring for me, even for just that hour, is enormously helpful.

[Gilly61 in reply to Hephzibar]

Thank you I think I’ll give acupuncture a try

[Cb1963]

I suffered with cluster headaches which are truly awful, but I'm now struggling with tension headaches, and i know what's causing them, I'm physically exhausted from not sleeping properly,I'm not getting enough sleep because I've got arthritis in my shoulders, this is causing my neck muscles to tighten up, there's numerous types of headaches or migraines and obviously you don't want to be put on any unwanted medication, it's very frustrating getting any sort of headaches and of course painful, I hope you find a resolution very soon, best of luck!