Episodic tension-type headache is the most common headache disorder. It affects 42% of all women and 36% of all men.

Tension-type headaches, like all headaches, must fulfill certain criteria to be diagnosed. Criteria for diagnosing episodic tension-type headache include the following:

A. At least ten headache attacks, but less than 180 days of the year with headache.

B. Each headache episode lasts from 30 minutes to 7 days.

C. At least two of the following four characteristics are present.

1. Pressing/tightening (non-pulsating) quality.
2. Mild or moderate severity.
3. Both sides of the head are involved.
4. No worsening of the headache with physical activity.

D. Both of the following.

1. No nausea or vomiting (decreased appetite may occur).
2. Bright light or loud sounds may make the headaches worse, but not both.

E. The headaches are not secondary to specific brain problem such as a stroke or a brain tumor.