Headaches in the back of the head – Causes, symptoms and treatment. Find relief from persistent pain and understand your options.

Headaches can occur in various parts of the head, including the back. Although headaches in the back of the head are not as common as frontal or temporal headaches, they can be debilitating and affect a person’s daily life. These headaches can be classified as primary and secondary, each with its own causes and symptoms.

Primary headaches:

• Tension headaches: These are the most common type of primary headache and are usually described as a dull pain that may radiate to the back of the head.
• Cervicogenic headaches: These headaches originate in the neck and can cause pain in the back of the head or upper neck.
• Occipital neuralgia: This condition involves irritation or inflammation of the occipital nerves, which can cause severe stabbing headaches in the back of the head.

Important: It is essential to differentiate primary headaches from secondary headaches, as these may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires immediate attention and treatment.

Secondary headaches:

1. Cervical spine disorders: Problems such as cervical spondylosis or herniated discs in the neck can cause referred pain to the back of the head.
2. High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can cause headaches, including those located in the back of the head.
3. Head or neck trauma: Trauma to the head or neck can cause post-traumatic headaches, often accompanied by pain in the back of the head.

It is important to see a doctor if you experience recurring or severe headaches in the back of your head. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options to relieve your symptoms.

Understanding Headaches in the Back of the Head

A common cause of headaches in the back of the head is tension headaches. These headaches are usually characterized by a dull, constant pain that can radiate from the back of the head to the neck and shoulders. Stress, muscle tension and poor posture are often contributing factors to tension headaches. Table 1 summarizes the main causes and symptoms of tension headaches.

“Tension headaches on the back of the head usually suffer from people with very stressful lifestyles or who spend many hours sitting with bad postures.”

Another possible cause of headaches on the back of the head are cervicogenic headaches. These headaches arise from a neck dysfunction or cervical column and can cause pain that extends to the base of the skull. Bad postures, cervical lesions and conditions such as arthritis can contribute to cervicogenic headaches. Table 2 offers an exhaustive description of the factors associated with cervicogenic headaches.

“Cervicogenic headaches on the back of the head are usually associated with underlying problems in the neck and can be triggered by certain movements or postures.”

Although tension and cervicogenic headaches are two frequent causes of headaches on the back of the head, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Understanding the specific cause of headaches can guide the development of a specific treatment plan, which may include lifestyle modifications, stress control techniques, physiotherapy or medication.

Causes of Occipital Headaches: Explained

1. Muscle tension: One of the main responsible for occipital headaches is muscle tension. The muscles of the back of the head and neck, including suboccipitals, can tense due to various factors, such as poor posture, stress or repetitive activities. This muscle tension can cause pain and discomfort that radiates from the neck to the base of the skull.

Muscle tension in the neck and suboccipital region is a frequent cause of occipital headaches. Postural tension, stress and repetitive movements can contribute to muscle tension, causing pain and discomfort.

2. Anomalies of the cervical column: Another possible cause of the occipital headaches lies in the anomalies of the cervical column. Problems such as cervical discourse, degenerative disc disease or cervical spondyls can exert pressure on the nerves that irrigate the back of the head, causing referred pain and headache.

1. Cervical Discal hernia
2. Degenerative Discal Disease
3. Cervical spondilosis

The anomalies of the cervical column, such as the cervical discourse, degenerative disc disease and cervical spondyls, can exert pressure on the nerves that irrigate the occipital region, which causes referred pain and the appearance of occipital headaches.

3. Nervous compression: In some cases, occipital headaches can be attributed to nerve compression in the occipital region. When occipital nerves, which leave the spinal cord at the top of the neck, are compressed or irritated, can generate pain that radiates to the back of the head. This compression may be due to various factors, such as trauma, inflammation or entrapment.

The compression or irritation of the occipital nerves, which leave the top of the neck, can cause occipital headaches. Trauma, inflammation or entrapment of these nerves can cause pain that radiates from the neck to the back of the head.

Understanding the underlying causes of occipital headaches is crucial to determining the proper treatment. Whether addressing muscle tension, treating the anomalies of the cervical column or treating nerve compression, a comprehensive approach can provide relief and improve the quality of life of people suffering from occipital headaches.

How to Identify the Different Types of Headaches in the Back of Your Head

A type of headache that usually occurs in the back of the head are tension headaches. These headaches are usually described as a deaf pain that can feel like a tense band around the head. Tension headaches may be due to stress, muscle tension, bad posture or even visual fatigue. To help identify tension headaches, pay attention to any trigger or pattern that may be associated with the appearance of headache. They can be stressful factors, prolonged time in front of a specific screen or activities. In addition, tension headaches can be relieved with rest, relaxation techniques, free sales analgesics or applying a hot compress on the back of the head.

Tensional headaches: They are characterized by a deaf pain that feels like a tense band around the head. The most common triggers are stress, muscle tension, bad postures and visual fatigue. Rest, relaxation techniques, sales analgesics without recipe and hot compresses can provide relief.

Another type of headache that can occur in the back of the head is cervicogenic headaches. These headaches originate in the cervical spine or neck and can radiate pain to the back of the head. Cervicogenic headaches can be caused by cervical injuries, poor posture, or degenerative neck conditions. To identify cervicogenic headaches, pay attention to any pain or stiffness in the neck, as well as any limitations in neck range of motion. These headaches usually respond well to physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and postural correction.

Cervicogenic headaches: Originating in the cervical spine or neck, these headaches can cause pain that radiates to the back of the head. They are usually the result of cervical injuries, poor posture or degenerative neck conditions. Physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and postural correction can help relieve these headaches.

It is important to note that if you are suffering from chronic or severe headaches in the back of your head, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. A healthcare professional will be able to evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and provide you with the appropriate guidance to relieve your headaches and improve your overall well-being.

Effective Home Remedies for Relieving Occipital Headaches

1. Apply a hot or cold compress: One of the easiest and most effective home remedies for occipital headache is applying a hot or cold compress. This can help relax muscles and reduce inflammation, providing pain relief. You can use a hot towel, heating pad, or ice pack, depending on what temperature is most comfortable for you. Apply the compress to the back of your head for 15-20 minutes and repeat as necessary.

Pro tip: If you use a cold compress, wrap it in a thin cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin and prevent frostbite.

2. Practice relaxation techniques: Stress and tension can contribute to occipital headaches. Practicing relaxation techniques can help relieve pain and prevent future occurrences. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga are some effective relaxation techniques that can reduce muscle tension and promote overall well-being. Spend a few minutes a day practicing these techniques and incorporate them into your daily routine for maximum benefits.

3. Maintain a good posture: a bad posture can tighten the muscles of the neck and shoulders, which causes occipital headaches. Pay attention to your posture, especially when you are sitting or work on a desk for prolonged periods. Keep the aligned column, relaxed shoulders and avoid beating. Consider using an ergonomic chair or a lumbar support pillow to provide additional support and foster a correct posture.

1. Incorporate foods rich in magnesium into your diet: magnesium deficiency has been linked to headaches, including occipital. Include in your diet foods rich in magnesium such as spinach, avocado, almonds and bananas to help reduce the frequency and intensity of these headaches.

Incorporating these effective home remedies to your routine, you can effectively control and relieve occipital headaches, improving your quality of life in general and reducing the dependence of medication.

Medical Treatments Available for Chronic Headaches in the Back of the Head

1. Medications:

• Free sales analgesics: no n-steroidal ant i-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin, can be effective to temporarily relieve mild or moderate headaches.
• Recipe medications: For the most serious or chronic headaches, the doctor can prescribe more powerful medications, such as triptans, opiates or muscle relaxants. These medications relieve pain and reduce the frequency of headaches.
• Preventive medications: certain medications, such as beta blockers, antidepressants or anticonvuls, can be prescribed to help prevent the appearance or reduce the frequency of chronic headaches.

“Medications are often used as a frontline treatment for chronic headaches on the back of the head. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication based on the specific condition and the medical history of the individual.”

2. Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for chronic headaches on the back of the head, especially when they are related to muscle tension or bad posture. Physiotherapists can provide specific exercises, stretching and manual therapy techniques to relieve tension in the neck muscles and the upper back, which can contribute to headaches. In addition, they can educate people about adequate posture and body mechanics to prevent future headaches.

3. Nervous Blocks:

In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend nerve blocks as a treatment option for chronic headaches in the back of the head. This procedure involves injecting medication, such as a local anesthetic or a corticosteroid, directly into specific nerves or trigger points associated with headache pain. Nerve blocks can provide temporary relief and help break the cycle of recurring headaches.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent and Manage Occipital Headaches

Occipital headaches, characterized by pain in the back of the head, can significantly affect quality of life. Although medications can relieve them, some lifestyle changes can help prevent and control them. By incorporating a few simple modifications into your daily routine, you can potentially reduce the frequency and intensity of occipital headaches.

1. Maintain correct posture: Poor posture is a common trigger for occipital headaches. Slouching or holding your head in an uncomfortable position can strain the muscles in your neck and cause tension and headaches. Sit and stand upright, keeping your head in line with your spine. Also, make sure you have proper ergonomic support when working at a desk or using electronic devices.

TIP: Use a lumbar roll or rolled towel to support the natural curve of your lower back when sitting for long periods. Place computer monitors at eye level to avoid straining your neck.

2. Manage stress levels: Stress is a known trigger of occipital headaches and can exacerbate pain. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques, engaging in physical activity, or taking up hobbies, can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Incorporating mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and meditation, into your daily routine can also help manage stress.

3. Follow a balanced diet: bad dietary choices, such as consuming excessive quantities of caffeine, refined sugars or processed foods, can contribute to occipital headaches. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Keep hydrated drinking enough water throughout the day, since dehydration can also trigger headaches. Taking a food diary can help identify specific triggers and allow you to make the necessary dietary adjustments.

1. Practice a correct posture
2. Control stress levels
3. Keep a balanced diet

When to Seek Medical Attention for Headaches in the Back of the Head

If you experience any of the following symptoms along with headaches on the back of the head, it is recommended to consult a health professional:

1. Intense or persistent pain: if the pain is intense and lasts more than usual or does not respond to free sale analgesics, it is important to seek medical attention. It could be a sign of an underlying disease that requires an exhaustive evaluation.
2. Symptom worsening: If your headaches on the back of the head gradually worsen in frequency, intensity or duration, it is advisable to consult a doctor. This could indicate an underlying problem that must be treated.
3. Accompanying neurological symptoms: the presence of neurological symptoms such as dizziness, difficulty speaking, changes in vision or loss of coordination should motivate immediate medical care. These symptoms can be indicative of a more serious condition that requires an urgent evaluation.

It is important to keep in mind that each case is unique and that this information should not replace professional medical advice. If you suffer headaches on the back of the head and you are not sure if you should look for medical attention, consult a healthcare professional.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont