What is the typical description of pain in tension-type headaches?

Tension-type headaches are commonly characterized by a band-like sensation around the head. This type of pain is often described as a steady, dull pressure or tightness rather than sharp or severe. Patients may express the sensation as if there is a tight band or vice-like pressure encompassing the head, which is distinct from other headache types such as migraines.

The band-like quality is associated with muscle tension in the scalp and neck, which can contribute to this specific sensation. Recognizing this characteristic helps in differentiating tension-type headaches from other headache disorders, where pain descriptors tend to be more intense or of a different nature, such as throbbing or sharp and stabbing qualities. This understanding is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and management of headache disorders.