The main symptom of a tension headache is a dull and pressure-like pain in the head. The pain is typically generalized, with areas of more intense pain in the scalp, forehead, temples or the back of the neck. The headache may also produce a feeling of pressure similar to the sensation caused by the placement of a vice or a tight band on the head and/or around the neck.    

Tension headaches may be accompanied by a number of other symptoms including:

• Neck pain or jaw discomfort  
• A clicking sound when opening the jaw
• Tenderness in the scalp, neck or shoulder muscles
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty concentrating

In addition to these symptoms, tension headache sufferers may also experience a number of symptoms related to migraines, including an increased sensitivity to light or sound. However, this is rare.