Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What type of headache is associated with muscle tension and often radiates to the neck and shoulders?

1. Tension headaches

2. Vascular headaches

3. Cluster headaches

4. Ischemic headaches

The correct answer is: Tension headaches

Tension headaches are characterized by a sensation of tightening or pressure across the forehead or at the back of the head and neck. They are often associated with muscle tension and can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or prolonged muscle contractions. The pain from tension headaches typically radiates to the neck and shoulders, which is a key distinguishing factor. Many individuals report feelings of tightness or soreness in the muscles of the scalp, neck, and shoulder areas during these episodes. In contrast, vascular headaches, commonly referred to as migraines, involve changes in blood flow and often present with symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and may include an aura. Cluster headaches are severe headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or clusters and are typically focused around one eye. Ischemic headaches, which could refer to headaches caused by reduced blood flow or ischemia, are not categorized in the same way as tension headaches. Thus, when looking for a headache type that is predominantly linked to muscle tension and related symptoms, tension headaches are the clear answer.