What causes a headache when you think too much?

In general, headaches caused by overthinking may be due to psychological factors, excessive fatigue, anxiety disorder, tension-type headache, or hypertension. It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Psychological Factors

Overthinking may lead to persistent worry and tension, which can cause the brain to become overly active, triggering symptoms such as headaches and excessive sweating. It is advisable to engage in moderate exercise and listen to soothing music to help calm emotions.

2. Excessive Fatigue

If one remains under high-intensity work and life stress without sufficient rest and relaxation, it may result in excessive fatigue. This condition can lead to overactivation of the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headache, blurred vision, and insomnia.

3. Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder is commonly associated with mental stress and genetic factors. It may cause excessive muscle tension throughout the body. During periods of intense thinking, this muscle tension may worsen due to heightened concentration, leading to symptoms such as headache, chest tightness, and skin flushing. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as paroxetine hydrochloride tablets, venlafaxine hydrochloride capsules, or Jieyu Anshen Granules may be used for treatment. Symptoms may also be alleviated through relaxation training.

4. Tension-Type Headache

Tension-type headaches are often related to anxious emotions. When engaged in excessive thinking, anxiety may be triggered, causing overexcitation of the nervous system and resulting in symptoms such as headache and insomnia. Under medical supervision, medications such as Yangxue Qingnao Granules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or acetaminophen tablets may be taken. It is also beneficial to consume foods rich in vitamin B, such as oats, soy milk, and pork liver.

5. Hypertension

Hypertension may be caused by long-term smoking and alcohol consumption, leading to elevated blood pressure. During mental activity, the brain requires increased blood supply; however, high blood pressure increases vascular resistance and disrupts normal blood flow, potentially causing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and tinnitus. Patients may take medications such as propranolol hydrochloride tablets, nifedipine sustained-release tablets, or irbesartan hydrochlorothiazide tablets as prescribed. Consuming foods with blood pressure-lowering effects, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and black fungus, may also be helpful.

In daily life, consuming protein-rich foods such as milk, eggs, and chicken may also support brain health.