What type of headache is classified as a tension headache?

A tension headache is typically characterized by a bilateral pattern of pain, meaning it affects both sides of the head. This type of headache often presents as a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck, contributing to its classification. Unlike migraines, which can be unilateral and often come with additional symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light, tension headaches are generally not associated with these features. They may be triggered by stress, muscle tension, or fatigue.

In contrast, unilateral migraine headaches often occur on one side of the head and can be accompanied by other symptoms, while cluster headaches are marked by intense pain that is usually localized around one eye and can occur in clusters over a period of time. Rebound headaches arise from the overuse of headache medications, leading to a cycle of headache pain. Thus, the bilateral nature of tension headaches is what distinctly classifies them within the headache spectrum, confirming that the correct understanding of tension headaches aligns with the multiple-choice answer indicating bilateral headache.