f you have tension headaches often or over-the-counter medicines don't help your pain, you should see a doctor. He or she may prescribe some medicine that you take only when you have a headache to relieve the pain.

It's best to treat tension headaches when they begin and are still mild--before they get more painful.

Your doctor may also prescribe a medicine that you take every day, even when you don't have a headache, to help prevent tension headaches. Your doctor will tell you which type of medicine he or she is prescribing for you.

If your tension headaches don't get better, or if they get worse, call your doctor for further advice.