Headaches that predominantly affect the back of the head can stem from various sources such as tension, migraines, or overusing medication. Occasionally, these headaches may also result in neck pain.
The article examines eight typical origins of pain in the back of the head, which include:
- Tension headaches
- Migraines
- Headaches due to excessive medication use
- Occipital neuralgia
- Headaches triggered by physical exertion
Furthermore, an exploration of the symptoms, potential therapeutic interventions, and strategies for prevention of these headache types is presented.
Headache Types and Remedies
- Tension-Type Headaches
Commonly presenting a pressing sensation around the head, often extending from the forehead to the neck, TTH can last from half an hour to a week.
Characteristics include:
- A sensation of head constriction, impacting the back, possibly the face or neck
- Mild to moderate pain, sometimes intense
- Unaffected by physical exercise
- Absence of nausea or vomiting
Find more on tension headache management.
- Migraines
Migraines are recurring headaches, usually starting in childhood, becoming more frequent in adulthood, particularly in women aged 35 to 45.
Symptoms often involve:
- Pulsating intense unilateral head pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances
- Increased sensitivity to stimuli
- Muscle soreness and skin sensitivity
- Duration from hours to days, worsened by activity
Migraines sometimes begin with an “aura” that includes visual phenomena.
Explore migraine triggers and treatments.
- Cervicogenic Headaches
Originating in the neck, cervicogenic headaches spread to the head due to cervical nerve irritation.
Symptoms include:
- Periocular pain and vision issues
- One-sided neck, shoulder, or arm pain
- Movement-triggered head pain
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light or sound
Read about cervicogenic headache causes and therapies.
- Occipital Neuralgia
A less common type affecting the back of the head, possibly due to issues with the occipital nerves.
The pain may be:
- Steady throbbing or burning
- Sporadic sharp shoots
- Often one-sided and neck-motion-triggered
- Scalp tenderness
- Light sensitivity
Occipital neuralgia may be confused with other headache types because of symptom overlap.
Learn more about occipital neuralgia causes and options for treatment.
- Exercise-Induced Headaches
These arise promptly during or after physical exertion and can intensify quickly.
Symptoms include:
- Throbbing bilateral head pain, enduring minutes to days
- Sometimes accompanied by migraine-like features
Understand how exercise can provoke headaches.
- Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches offer intense, localized pain, usually around the eyes, and can be sudden and severe.
Additional signs are:
- Agitation
- Eye-region inflammation
- Nasal issues and pallor
- Sweating and eyelid drooping
Discover more about cluster headache origins and treatments.
- Medication-Overuse Headaches
Taking pain relievers too frequently can lead to MOH or rebound headaches.
Symptoms may include:
- Daily headaches
- Morning worsening
- Post-medication-stop headaches
MOH can also bring on tiredness, nausea, mood changes, and mental fog.
- Low-Pressure Headaches
Low cerebrospinal fluid pressure causes positional headaches, worsening when upright and improving when lying down.
Characteristics are:
- Headaches intensifying throughout the day
- Triggered by various movements
- Felt at the back of the head but can impact the entire head
- Described as severe, throbbing, or stabbing
When to see a doctor about a headache at the back of the head?
A sudden onset of a severe headache could suggest a critical issue such as a stroke or meningitis.
Symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention are:
- High temperature
- Loss of strength
- Trouble with or loss of vision
- Disorientation
Frequently asked questions
What is the sensation of a dehydration headache like?
The pain from a dehydration headache can vary from slight to severe and may localize in the front, back, or sides of the head. Sudden movements can exacerbate the discomfort.
Other signs pointing to dehydration headaches include a profound thirst, reduced urine output, and urine that is dark in color.
Discover more about headaches due to dehydration.
Can headaches at the back of the head signify a stroke?
An intense headache that suddenly strikes and affects the entire head may be a sign of a stroke. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) notes conditions linked to hemorrhagic stroke can lead to an acute, severe ‘thunderclap’ headache, originating abruptly, unlike the gradual onset of most headaches.
A thunderclap headache is often described as the most severe headache ever experienced and can be caused by issues such as subarachnoid or intracerebral hemorrhage, or an aneurysm.
What measures can alleviate a headache at the back of the head?
Treatment for a headache located at the back of the head will depend on its root cause, often including medication alongside lifestyle alterations.
One can use over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for relief. NINDS recommends taking measures to manage stress, such as enjoying a warm bath or practicing mindfulness. To combat dehydration, increasing water intake can help, as well as reducing exposure to intense lights and massaging the neck and base of the skull.
Explore natural headache remedies further.
When should head pain in the back be worrying?
If one experiences a severe headache that comes on suddenly, combined with neck stiffness, possibly with nausea, fever, and vomiting, they should seek emergency assistance. Immediate medical care is also needed for severe headaches accompanied by confusion, weakness, double vision, or loss of consciousness.
A doctor’s consultation is necessary under the following conditions:
Headache intensity grows over several days or weeks.
Having multiple headaches in a week.
Experiencing headaches after a blow to the head.
Children who suffer from persistent headaches.
Headaches that occur with changes in sensation or weakness.
Headaches paired with seizures or breathing difficulties.
Summary
Headaches are a prevalent issue that can impact daily activities and overall well-being.
While some headaches may resolve on their own, others may be indicative of more serious conditions. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns with persistent headaches, especially when accompanied by other symptoms.
Early intervention and appropriate treatment are key to managing headaches effectively.
