Facial Tension is caused by physical and emotional stress. Facial tension can manifest in the following: Chapped and dry lips. Headaches and migraines. Itchy and Dry facial skin.
The facial tension experienced while performing our day to day activities is a result of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) producing excess stress hormones and cortisol, which are responsible for keeping us in good condition. SNS has a direct pathway from the brain to the muscles. So when we experience physical stress, the SNS releases more stress hormones and cortisol to the muscles to “help us deal” with the challenge. The problem however is that chronic facial tension causes chronic fatigue and pain.
So, what is the facial tension Symptom? The list below explains some of the most common facial tension and facial tingling symptoms that sufferers report. To make the list, the symptoms need to be strong enough to cause your daily life difficulties, but not so strong as to be a disabling medical condition.
Facial Tension headache. This is the hardest symptoms to deal with. A common cause of headaches are facial tension. When you feel yourself tighten up, your forehead may get a migraine headache. Facial tension does not go away just because you relax. You need to learn how to release the tension before it leads to headaches.
Facial Tension Relief – tension headache. When the tension in the facial area becomes chronic, it can lead to chronic tension headaches. To alleviate tension headache you can use tension relief creams, massage therapy and exercise.
Facial Tension & Anxiety – episodes of anxiety and stress. These can also lead to facial tension headaches and if they become frequent, then you could have generalized anxiety disorder. To treat the anxiety episodes, you can take medication or try some relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, tai chi or swimming.
Resting Face – when the face is rested and closed, there is less tension on the muscles and the face. In order to prevent headaches, you should practice resting your face frequently. The most recommended time to rest is when the eyes are open. By closing the eyes when resting, you avoid stimulating the muscles further and keep the blood flowing well. You need to take care when relaxing your face; you should not make it hard for yourself by rolling the eyes.
Posture & Relaxation Techniques – You need to know how to position your body in order to prevent tension and stress. Start by sitting straight with a chair, legs comfortably and feet flat on the floor. With your hands placed firmly on the table or the ground, close your eyes and close your mouth. While keeping your chin near your chest, relax the shoulders and let go of tension in all the muscles in front of you. Repeat these techniques for at least ten times and you will notice that your forehead is feeling much more relaxed.
To get facial tension relief, you also need to engage your facial muscles. While you are sitting, try opening and closing your mouth, tilt your head up, and move it to the side. While you are tilting your head, make sure that your forehead is level and not higher or lower than it already is. You can start by concentrating on the muscles in front of you, and as you start to get better, you can move to other areas of your face. Make sure that when you are releasing tension in your facial muscles, your forehead does not become too sore.
De-Stress – Stress is one of the biggest causes of facial tension, so try to find ways to de-stress every day. Meditation, yoga and breathing exercises are excellent ways to relax. If you are experiencing facial redness or facial anxiety symptoms, you can use either one or all of these methods to alleviate your facial tension.
Jaw Care – Maintains a good posture is a great way to relieve tension in your muscles. Always keep your chin at a natural angle, and don’t allow your jaw to pull you forward or back. The tension in the jaw is one of the leading causes of headaches, so learn how to properly chew your food and avoid grinding your teeth. Avoid grinding your teeth as much as possible, since this can lead to serious dental problems later.
Facial Tension and Migraines – There is a connection between tension and migraines. Many people who have migraines experience facial tension when their migraines start. Tension in the muscles can be the culprit when the muscles tighten up and cause tension in the blood vessels. Try to practice some relaxation techniques for your facial muscles before each Facial Tension Relief attack, and you might be surprised by how effective they are in relieving tension and preventing migraines.