How to prepare for a video visit about Tension Headache

Audience: pediatric

Tension headaches are common in children and teens and often feel like a tight band around the head. Preparing well for a video visit about tension headaches can help you and your healthcare provider understand the problem better. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, daily habits, and any recent stress or changes in routine. They may also guide you on ways to manage headaches at home, such as relaxation techniques, healthy sleep, and hydration. While many tension headaches can be managed with simple steps, it is important to watch for warning signs that need urgent care. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to discuss symptoms and get advice, but it cannot replace a full physical exam or tests if needed. This guide will help you get ready for your video visit, know what to expect, and understand when to seek in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe headache unlike previous headaches — seek emergency care immediately.
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, or difficulty waking — get urgent medical attention.
• Headache following a head injury or accident — go to emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing headache symptoms and history.
• Providing advice on lifestyle changes and headache management.
• Monitoring mild or stable tension headaches.
• Determining if in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a full physical or neurological exam.
• Diagnosing serious conditions that mimic headaches.
• Ordering or conducting imaging tests or lab work.
• Managing sudden, severe, or worsening neurological symptoms.

What is a Tension Headache?

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache in children and teens. They usually cause a dull, squeezing pain on both sides of the head. These headaches can happen after stress, tiredness, or poor posture. They often last from 30 minutes to several hours and may come and go over days or weeks. Unlike migraines, tension headaches usually do not cause nausea or sensitivity to light or sound.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home or school. During the visit, the provider will ask about your headache symptoms, daily activities, sleep, and stress. They may suggest ways to reduce headaches like improving sleep habits, managing stress, and staying hydrated. Telemedicine is good for follow-up visits or mild symptoms but may not be enough if the headaches are severe or sudden.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, try to note down:

Having this information ready will help your provider understand your headaches better.

What to Expect During the Visit

The provider will ask questions about your headaches and overall health. They may observe your appearance and ask you to show your head or neck through the camera. They will discuss ways to manage the headaches and may recommend keeping a headache diary. If needed, they might suggest an in-person visit or tests to rule out other causes.

When to Seek Emergency Care

While tension headaches are usually not serious, certain signs mean you should get urgent medical help:

If any of these happen, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down when the headaches started and how often they occur.
• Note the type of pain, location, and severity of headaches.
• List any other symptoms like nausea, dizziness, or vision changes.
• Record daily habits including sleep patterns, meals, and stress levels.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with a working camera and microphone.
• Have a list of current medications or supplements ready.
• Ensure a responsible adult is present if needed for younger children.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any lifestyle or medication advice given by the provider.
• Keep a headache diary to track frequency, triggers, and response to treatments.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if headaches persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Use relaxation and stress management techniques as recommended.

FAQs

What causes tension headaches in children?

Tension headaches often happen because of stress, tiredness, poor posture, or eye strain. Sometimes, changes in routine or emotional upset can trigger them.

Can tension headaches be prevented?

Yes, many tension headaches can be prevented by getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, managing stress, and taking breaks from screens or activities that strain the head and neck.

When should I worry about my child's headache?

If the headache is sudden and very severe, comes with fever or confusion, follows a head injury, or causes weakness or vision changes, seek urgent medical care immediately.

Will the doctor prescribe medicine during a video visit?

The provider may suggest over-the-counter pain relievers or other treatments if appropriate. However, some medicines may require an in-person visit for safety and monitoring.

How can I help my child during a headache?

Encourage rest in a quiet, dark room, offer water, and help them practice relaxation techniques. Avoid bright lights and loud noises during headache episodes.

Sources

1. Tension Headaches — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Headache in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Headache Information — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Tension-Type Headache — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your child's health or experience any red flag symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.