The back of my head hurts. Causes of pain in the back of the head

The human skull is represented by a fixed articulation of bones. The brain and facial parts of the skull are distinguished. Each of them has its own anatomical features, which can be used to determine a person’s gender, age, and sometimes even race. Each person has his own options for bone formation, which are determined by hereditary data and the influence of external factors. Protrusions, depressions, bone abrasion may appear, and an occipital protuberance forms on the back of the head. The shape of the skull changes for the following reasons:

rickets suffered in childhood;
acromegaly – increased level of somatotropin;
injury();
infectious lesions;
tumors of benign and malignant nature.

Anatomical features of the occipital bone

The foramen magnum, the seat of the medulla oblongata, is formed by the four elements of the occipital bone. In front of the opening is the basilar part. During childhood, the sphenoid bone is connected to it through cartilage. By the age of 20, their immobile fusion is formed.

Inside the cranial cavity, the surface is smooth, and the brain stem is located on it. The outside is rough, with a protruding tubercle. On the lateral parts there are two occipital condyles, each with its own articular surface. Together with the first vertebral bone they form an articulation. At the base of the condyle, the bone pierces the hypoglossal canal.

The jugular notch, located on the lateral part, together with the formation of the same name in the temporal bone, make up the jugular foramen. Cranial nerves and veins pass through it. The occipital part is represented by scales. It performs an integumentary function. There is an occipital protuberance in the center. It is unmistakably detected through the skin. A ridge runs from the mound to the large hole. On the sides of it there are paired nuchal lines - these are the points of muscle growth.

Occipital protuberance in an adult

Neanderthal man had a distinctive feature - a prominent occipital bone. In this manifestation it is now very rare. May be a characteristic feature of the Australids, Lappids, of the inhabitants inhabiting the Lancashire region of Great Britain. Another concept uses this definition to characterize a protruding part of the skull that has any cause. The most likely are:

injury;
a bite of an insect;
atheroma;
hemangioma;
osteoma.

Injury

Traumatic damage to the bone is accompanied by swelling and the appearance of a growth. If you apply a cold compress immediately after an injury, the effects will be reduced. Swelling develops at the site of the injury, a lump appears that hurts when you touch or turn the head. The condition does not require treatment and goes away on its own.

A bite of an insect

The appearance of a lump is accompanied by unpleasant sensations in the form of itching and pain when pressed. Often this is a type of local allergic reaction. Depending on the reactivity of the body, the tubercle can have a different size. To get rid of it, use antihistamines and ointments to eliminate itching.

Atheroma

Sometimes a hard, painless formation appears under the skin, which tends to become inflamed when infected. It is represented by clogged sebaceous glands. Treatment is carried out surgically.

Hemangioma

If there is a red lump on the back of the head with translucent vessels, then most likely it is formed by a benign vascular tumor. This is usually a feature of intrauterine vascular formation; with adulthood, the tumor may begin to grow. There is a high risk of injury and bleeding. The tumor is removed using laser coagulation, surgical excision, and cryodestruction.

Lipoma

The appearance of a lump on the head of an adult may be due to the development of a lipoma - a benign growth of connective tissue. Wen grows slowly and does not pose a danger to life.

Osteoma

A long-growing benign tumor of bone tissue that does not grow into adjacent tissues and does not malignize. It is a tubercle in the form of an even hemisphere. It affects young people but grows over many years.

Osteoma can form the occipital protuberance in a person from very dense tissue. It does not have bone marrow and the Haversian canals that penetrate normal bone tissue. Sometimes there are another type, in the form of a bone marrow formation, completely consisting of cavities. Most often it forms on the bones of the skull and skeleton, but does not affect the ribs.

Lumps can grow from the outer plates of the skull, then they do not give any brain symptoms. If the process began from the inside of the skull, epileptic seizures and memory impairment may appear.

The reasons for the development of tubercles are not fully known. There is definitely a hereditary predisposition. Growth can be triggered by injuries, the presence of diseases such as rheumatism, gout, autoimmune processes, and foci of chronic infection.

Diagnosis and treatment

X-ray methods are used for examination. It is necessary to differentiate osteoma from osteomyelitis and sarcoma. It is informative to use, which will reflect the nature of education layer by layer. Histological analysis will show the absence of bone marrow, which is characteristic of osteoma.

Treatment is carried out only surgically if the tubercle causes concern or causes pain. Sometimes this is only an aesthetic defect, when a person notices the occipital protuberances in himself in the mirror, in a photo, which reduces his self-confidence.

It is impossible to carry out preventive measures purposefully. A healthy lifestyle, preventing infections, and preventing head injuries can eliminate the risks of osteoma.

The back of the head, which is located above the neck, is called the occiput. The mastoid processes behind the ears can be considered the lateral borders of the back of the head, but this area does not have a clear upper border. The back of the head usually protrudes backwards in the form of a mound. Its sizes may vary. For example, in patients with Down syndrome and a number of other congenital pathologies, the back of the head does not protrude back so much, and it is more difficult to determine the location of its transition into the neck.

What structures are in the back of the head?

From an anatomical point of view, the back of the skull is called the occiput. In this area there are various anatomical formations, each of which, under certain conditions, can cause sensation pain. It is most convenient to consider the anatomical structure of the back of the head layer by layer, separating the blood supply and innervation separately. As a rule, a specific pathology affects a certain type of tissue. Sometimes the pain felt in the back of the head spreads from neighboring areas ( upper neck, temporal region).

From an anatomical point of view, the following structures are located in the back of the head:

subcutaneous tissue;
muscular aponeurotic layer;
layer of loose fiber;
periosteum;
occipital bone;
membranes of the brain;
brain;
vessels of the occipital region;
nerves of the occipital region;
neck muscles;
upper parts of the spine.

Nape skin

In its anatomical and physiological properties, the skin of the back of the head is not very different from the skin of the crown and forehead. It is quite thick, covered with hair, contains a large number of sweat and sebaceous glands and few sensitive nerve endings. The skin itself rarely causes pain in the back of the head. More often the problem is inflammation of the skin glands or hair follicles.

Subcutaneous tissue

Subcutaneous tissue ( adipose tissue) is the second layer in the occipital region. It is located between the skin and the aponeurosis ( flat band of connective tissue). The fiber in this area is divided into separate lobules by connective tissue partitions. It contains superficial vessels and nerves. The main cause of pain at this level is subcutaneous inflammatory processes.

Muscular aponeurotic layer

The muscular aponeurotic layer is a digastric muscle that stretches from the forehead to the back of the head. Its anterior abdomen is attached above the eye sockets. Then it passes into the so-called tendon helmet. This is a flat strand of connective tissue with great strength. This cord is not fixed tightly to the bones of the skull. That is why the skin and subcutaneous tissue located above it are relatively mobile. The connective tissue in this area is dense and performs, in part, a protective function. At the junction of the parietal bones and the occipital bone, the tendon helmet is attached to the posterior belly of the supracranial muscle. Actually, in the area of the back of the head, under the skin, it is the flat belly of this muscle that is located. Its contractions are controlled by branches of the facial nerve.

Layer of loose fiber

This layer lies deeper than the aponeurotic layer. Fiber at this level is distributed evenly and is not separated by connective tissue partitions. It contains fewer blood vessels and nerves. Both layers of fiber ( above and below the aponeurosis) are quite thin. The structure of the superficial soft tissues of the back of the head ( over the bone) is important in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries in this area. Blood can accumulate in soft tissues when blood vessels are damaged. When cuts or dissections of the skin occur, so-called scalped wounds are formed, which have their own characteristics.

Periosteum

Periosteum or periosteum is a special dense layer of connective tissue that surrounds the bone. Normally, it is necessary for normal bone growth. Nutrients come from the periosteum. She also takes an active part in the healing of fractures and cracks in bones. At the level of the periosteum, tendons and other fixed anatomical structures are attached. For example, in the lower part of the back of the head, part of the tendons of the posterior belly of the supracranial muscle is attached to it.

The periosteum consists of two main layers:

Adventitial layer. This layer is more superficial. It consists of fibrous connective tissue and contains a large number of nerve endings. Bone pain is usually caused by damage to the adventitial layer of the periosteum.
Bone-forming layer. This layer is internal and adjacent to the bone itself. It is responsible for the nutrition of bone tissue and contains special cells that stimulate its growth ( osteoblasts).

In the occipital region, the periosteum does not adhere tightly to the bone over its entire area. Fusion of these structures occurs only in the area of sutures ( junctions of the occipital bone with other flat bones of the skull).

Occipital bone

The occipital bone is one of the most massive bones of the skull. It contains many divisions and topographical elements. The main function of this bone is to fix the anatomical structures in the occipital region and protect the posterior parts of the brain.

The occipital bone has the following three sections:

Scales. The scales are a thinner plate that connects to the parietal and temporal bones. On the outer surface of the scales ( approximately in the center of the occipital bone) there is an external occipital protrusion that can be felt through the skin. Down from it ( to the foramen magnum) goes the external nuchal crest. The inner surface of the scales is of great importance. There are depressions in which the blood sinuses of the brain pass ( sagittal and transverse).
Lateral masses. This is the name given to the parts of the bone located on the sides of the foramen magnum. They have special articular surfaces that provide reliable connection of the first ( upper) cervical vertebra with skull. This connection is fixed. Also in this area there is a groove for the passage of the hypoglossal nerve ( XII pair of cranial nerves) and for the emissary vein.
Body of occipital bone. The body is located almost horizontally and takes part in the formation of the base of the skull. It is located anterior to the foramen magnum and is connected to the scales through the lateral masses. A suture of the pharynx is attached to the body below, fixing it to the base of the skull.

The foramen magnum, limited by the above-mentioned parts of the bone, connects the cranial cavity with the spinal canal. It contains the lower part of the brain stem ( medulla), pass through all the meninges. At the level of the foramen magnum, the brain becomes the spinal cord. Sufficient width of this opening is necessary for free circulation of cerebrospinal fluid between the membranes.

The occipital bone has connections with the following bones:

parietal bones;
temporal bones;
atlas ( I cervical vertebra).

Meninges

The human brain has several membranes that perform various functions. The membranes separate the brain itself from the bones of the skull, enclosing the organ in a kind of case. They pass through the foramen magnum into the spinal canal. From an anatomical point of view, moving from the occipital bone inward to the brain, there will be an alternation of the membranes of the brain and the spaces between them. Various pathological processes can also occur in these spaces, causing pain in the back of the head.

The following membranes and spaces are located between the brain and the bones of the skull:

Dura mater. This shell consists of fibers of dense connective tissue. It directly fuses with the bones of the skull, as if lining it from the inside. Protrusions of the dura mater in some places protrude into the brain, separating its sections ( for example, the falx cerebri divides its hemispheres). The dura mater also forms special sinuses. These are wide ducts through which venous blood leaves the brain. On the inner surface of the back of the head there are sagittal ( its posterior part, occipital and sigmoid sinuses). Obstruction of blood flow in these sinuses can cause headaches, including in the back of the head.
Subdural space. This is a narrow gap separating solid ( from the outside) and arachnoid ( from the inside) membranes of the brain. This normally contains a small amount of fluid.
Arachnoid. This shell also consists of connective tissue, but it contains a large number of functional cells. It is responsible for maintaining a constant amount of cerebrospinal fluid ( cerebrospinal fluid). Blood and lymphatic vessels supplying the brain are partially fixed to it.
Subarachnoid space. Located between the arachnoid and pia mater of the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid circulates in this space. Its amount is usually constant, but may change in some pathologies. Normally, cerebrospinal fluid freely enters all cisterns of the brain and the subarachnoid space of the spinal cord. Excess fluid or local narrowing in this space leads to disruption of cerebrospinal fluid circulation and an increase. When the composition of the cerebrospinal fluid changes ( toxins, infection, etc.) irritation of the meninges occurs, which is also accompanied by pain.
Soft shell. This membrane is adjacent directly to the cerebral cortex, penetrating into all convolutions. It is partially connected to the arachnoid membrane. The loose connective tissue that forms the soft shell contains small vessels that supply nutrition to the brain tissue.

Brain

The human brain is a collection of nerve cells closely connected to each other. The brain tissue itself does not have pain receptors, so its diseases rarely cause pain in the back of the head. However, some pathologies may affect the meninges or lead to increased intracranial pressure, which will affect the patient's condition.

The following parts of the brain are located in the back of the head:

occipital lobes of the cerebral hemispheres;
cerebellum;
cerebellar cortex;
medulla ( passes through the foramen magnum).

Vessels of the occipital region

All vessels of the occipital region can be divided into two large groups - superficial, located in the soft tissues on the outside of the skull, and internal, supplying the occipital lobes of the brain and the cerebellum. The arteries of the occipital region originate from the vertebral arteries and external carotid arteries.

The most important arteries supplying the occipital region are:

occipital artery ( superficial);
posterior auricular artery ( located behind the ear, but extends branches to the back of the head);
posterior cerebral artery ( internal, originates from the basilar artery, and that, in turn, from the vertebral);
posterior branches of the middle cerebral artery.

Most veins run close to arteries and have the same names. However, the outflow of venous blood occurs ( inside the skull) into the sinuses formed by the dura mater. From there, most of the venous blood enters the jugular vein.

Features of the vessels of the skull ( including the occipital region) is a large number of branches and anastomoses ( connections) between them. There are also vessels connecting the arterial and venous basins of intracranial and external vessels. Because of this feature, some superficial infectious processes can spread into the cranial cavity without adequate treatment, leading to serious complications.

Nerves of the occipital region

There are few small nerve trunks inside the skull, since the brain itself is, in fact, a collection of nerve cells. The innervation of the skin of the back of the head and the soft tissues of this area is somewhat more complicated.

The following nerves are of greatest importance:

greater occipital nerve ( from the second cervical nerve);
lesser occipital nerve ( from the cervical plexus);
posterior trunks of cervical nerves ( from the spinal roots);
The posterior branches of the facial nerve are located closer to the ears.

Often pain, occurring in the back of the head, spreads ( irradiate) to neighboring areas ( temporal, parietal, neck). This can make it difficult to diagnose the cause of pain.

Neck muscles

Often the cause of pain in the back of the head is the neck muscles. Most of them are responsible for raising the head, maintaining its balance and turning to the sides. The muscles of this area are attached to the scapula, thoracic spine and fascia ( connective tissue membranes) back on one side and to the occipital bone on the other. They seem to overlap each other.

The following muscles are distinguished in the upper parts of the neck:(in order from outside to inside, towards the spine):

trapezius muscle;
splenius muscles of the head and neck;
levator scapulae muscle;
semispinalis dorsi muscle;
posterior and middle scalene muscles.

Muscles have a rich network of blood vessels. They also contain a number of cells that can be affected by systemic infections. All this creates the prerequisites for the fact that in some diseases, inflammatory foci appear directly in the muscle tissue.

Upper spine

Strictly speaking, the vertebrae are not part of the back of the head. However, they are in close proximity to it and can cause some pathological processes. The cervical spine includes vertebrae I to VII. The first cervical vertebra, the atlas, is firmly fused with the occipital bone in the region of the foramen magnum. The second vertebra, epistropheus or axis, has a protruding part, the so-called “tooth”, around which the atlas rotates. This connection provides increased head mobility. The remaining cervical vertebrae are not very different in structure. Between them are the so-called intervertebral discs. They ensure mobility of the cervical vertebrae relative to each other, and also create a springing effect, reducing the load from the weight of the head.

In the development of pain in the back of the head, the spinal roots are of greatest importance. These are processes of the spinal cord passing through the vertebral bodies. These roots extend from the sides of the spine in both directions. When the vertebrae are bent or salts are deposited between them, the root can become pinched, causing severe pain.

Causes of pain in the back of the head

Pain in the back of the head is an isolated symptom that can occur due to many different reasons. In the vast majority of cases, this disorder occurs due to diseases of structures located in close anatomical proximity to the back of the head, but pain often occurs due to pathologies that cover many more organs and systems.

It is necessary to understand that for every disease that can cause pain in the back of the head, there are also a number of other manifestations that can sometimes go unnoticed or underestimated ( especially against the background of fairly intense pain). Therefore, if disturbing symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor who, based on laboratory tests and data obtained during the conversation, will be able to compare the facts and correctly determine the diagnosis.

Many diseases that cause pain in the back of the head are pathologies that, with proper treatment, are quite easily eliminated. However, some diseases can pose a certain threat to the health and even life of the patient. This is due primarily to a fairly large number of vital brain, nervous and vascular structures located in the back of the head and upper neck.

As mentioned above, pain in the back of the head can occur with a large number of pathologies. To better understand this phenomenon, possible causes should be divided into several groups depending on the affected structures or the underlying mechanism of the disease.

The following causes of pain in the back of the head are identified:

Diseases of the anatomical structures of the occipital region. When muscles, bones, tendons, the upper part of the spine and other structures are affected, pain of varying intensity and duration may occur.
Neurogenic pain. Damage to the nerves and nerve endings located in this area can provoke a rather pronounced clinical picture. Treatment of this type of pain presents certain difficulties.
Vascular pain. Pathological changes in the vessels of the brain, which can be either permanent or periodic ( depending on a number of other factors), can cause headaches of various localizations.
Injuries. Injuries to the occipital region are a fairly obvious and common cause of pain.
Skin diseases. Infectious and traumatic lesions of the skin can cause quite severe pain, which, depending on the nature of the pathology, can be combined with many other symptoms.
Diseases of the skull bones. Tumors, infections and degenerative pathologies of bone tissue can provoke many unpleasant symptoms.
Infectious and inflammatory diseases. With many infectious and inflammatory diseases, damage to the muscles and skin of the back of the head can occur, which is fraught with quite severe pain. However, with a number of infections, damage to the meninges may occur ( meningitis), which will be accompanied by many severe symptoms, among which are extremely severe pain in the back of the head, which blocks neck movements.
Diseases of internal organs. With some pathologies of internal organs, the supply of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the back of the head may be disrupted, and the fragile internal balance of the body may also be disrupted, which can cause pain.
Psychogenic pain in the back of the head. Often, against the background of psycho-emotional stress, the pain syndrome can be exclusively psychogenic in nature, that is, not have any underlying organic pathology. Moreover, as the internal mental conflict is resolved, this symptom recedes.
External reasons. External causes of pain in the back of the head include poisoning with various toxic substances, hypothermia, excessive physical activity and other factors affecting the body from the outside.

This classification is conditional and is intended to somewhat facilitate the perception of such a broad topic as pain in the back of the head. It is necessary to understand that in many cases this symptom can be provoked by a pathology that involves several mechanisms at once.

Diseases of the anatomical structures of the occipital region

The most common cause of pain in the back of the head is a structural or functional change in the anatomical structures located there. It should be noted that pain in the back of the head is often a reflection of a pathological process, the source of which is located in the neck area.

Diseases of the anatomical structures of the occipital region

Name of the disease		Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Epidemic occipital myalgia*	*Muscles and tendons of the occipital region*	The disease is one of the manifestations of enterovirus infection caused by Coxsackie viruses. Pain most likely occurs as a result of direct damage to muscle tissue by viral particles. Various muscle groups may be affected. The pain intensifies with pressure and also with movement. Elevated temperature, which often reaches 40 degrees Celsius, can also cause pain in muscle structures.	The disease is characterized by a sharp, sudden onset, manifested by severe pain in the muscles of the back of the head, abdomen and intercostal muscles. Fever develops, sometimes accompanied by upper respiratory tract symptoms ( cough, sneezing, nasal congestion). Duration – about 4 – 6 days.
*Spondylitis*	*Cervical spine*	There is a gradual and progressive destruction of the vertebral bodies, which is accompanied by a decrease in the intervertebral space with compression of the spinal nerves. The result is pain that intensifies with movement and often spreads to other areas of the body ( limbs, torso), which is associated with inflammation and damage to the nerve fibers of this area. This pathology is characterized by a sluggish inflammatory reaction, which is responsible for the degeneration of bone tissue. The disease develops against the background of infectious diseases, as well as when connective tissue is damaged ( autoimmune process).	Destruction of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs leads to a significant decrease in the range of motion. In later stages, the spinal column is severely deformed.
*Disc herniation of the cervical spine*	*Intervertebral discs and spinal nerve roots*	A spinal hernia is a pathological condition in which a protrusion forms in the elastic intervertebral disc, compressing the spinal nerve root at the corresponding level. As a result, a pain syndrome occurs, associated with a disorder of sensory and motor function.	The pain usually spreads in only one direction, involving one of the limbs.
*Myositis or fibrositis*	*Muscles or their connective tissue membranes*	Due to injuries of varying severity or under the influence of an infectious factor, an inflammatory reaction develops that covers the neck muscles. In this case, immune cells are deposited in the tissues, swelling occurs, and biologically active substances are released, which provoke pain. In some cases, normal connective and muscle tissue is replaced by nonfunctional sclerotic tissue.	The disease is difficult to treat, and pathological changes ( foci of sclerosis in muscles), as a rule, irreversible.
*Cervical migraine*	*Blood vessels and nerves of the neck*	Against the background of an intervertebral hernia or other pathology ( increased pressure in the system of cerebral arteries, etc.) there is compression of the roots of the spinal nerves and sympathetic fibers ( are part of the autonomic nervous system, responsible for the basic unconscious functions of the body). As a result, periodic headaches develop with a predominant localization in the back of the head. As with a true migraine, pain can be accompanied by photophobia and noise sensitivity, as well as various sensitivity disorders.	The pain is usually one-sided. Its intensity may vary depending on the position of the head and neck.
*Myogelosis of the cervical region*	*Initially - blood vessels, later - muscles of the back of the head*	Against the background of impaired blood circulation ( most often due to atherosclerosis, but congenital vascular pathologies are often the cause), a state of insufficient oxygen supply to the neck muscles occurs. As a result, a compensatory reaction occurs with the replacement of normal tissue with sclerotic tissue, which is more resistant to lack of oxygen. Seals form in the muscles of the neck and back of the head, which compress the nerve endings and cause severe pain. Disruption of the cervical spinal cord in combination with reduced blood supply to the brain causes additional dizziness and weakness.	In the neck area you can feel small nodules located deep in the muscles. When pressed, a sharp pain occurs.
*Prolonged muscle tension*	*Muscles of the neck and back of the head*	For normal functioning, muscles need adequate blood supply with the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and the removal of waste products, as well as sufficient rest for recovery. With excessive load, the muscles stop coping with the load and metabolic changes occur in them with the accumulation of acidic breakdown products ( lactic acid), which cause quite severe and long-lasting pain. If the load on the muscles significantly exceeds their functional potential, a painful spasm may occur ( uncontrolled contraction) muscles with pain spreading to the back of the head and neck.	Light gymnastics and exercises for the neck can not only avoid the occurrence of these pains, but can also eliminate them.

Neurogenic pain

Neurogenic is pain caused by direct damage to nerve fibers and tissues of the spinal cord or brain. In most cases, such a clinical course occurs against the background of injury, infection, or systemic connective tissue disease.

Damage to the nerve structures of the occipital region

Name of the disease	Affected anatomical structure	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Occipital neuralgia*	*Cervical nerve plexus*	Inflammatory or any other ( depending on the original reason) damage to the nerve fibers that form the cervical plexus. This plexus provides innervation to the area of the back of the head, ear, neck, and shoulder girdle. With an isolated lesion of the occipital branch, pain can spread only to the occipital region, but most often other nerve trunks are also involved.	This pathology is rarely bilateral. Often there is a change in the skin with the development of redness, excessive sweating or, conversely, dryness.
*Multiple sclerosis*	*Spinal cord*	With this pathology, foci of damage to the myelin sheath of nerve cells occur in the spinal cord, which leads to disruption of the normal functioning of the central nervous system. Outgoing impulses can cover several nerve fibers, transmitted through areas devoid of myelin sheath. This can result in uncoordinated muscle contractions, which can lead to muscle fatigue and pain.	This disease is autoimmune ( that is, caused by a disruption in the functioning of one’s own immune system). It is usually accompanied by various motor and sensory disorders.

Vascular pain

In some cases, pain in the back of the head occurs due to functional or structural pathologies of the blood vessels. It should be noted that changes in the arteries and veins themselves do not cause pain, while the subsequent pathological reaction of the surrounding tissues causes the main clinical manifestation.

Pathologies of cerebral vessels

Name of the disease	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Migraine*	Against the background of a number of predisposing factors, a pathological nervous reaction occurs in the brain, which provokes changes in blood vessels. The result is dilation of cerebral vessels and the release of biologically active substances, which in combination create a clinical picture specific to migraine. Headaches are usually one-sided, predominantly in the forehead, but in some situations the pain can spread to the back of the head.	During an attack, photophobia and noise sensitivity, nausea, and vomiting may be observed. In some cases, sensory disturbance occurs. Some people, before the onset of a migraine attack, experience the phenomenon of “aura” - various visual or sensory changes occur ( bright flashes, flying flies, noise).
*Intracranial angioma*	It is an area with pathologically altered blood vessels in the brain. The angioma itself does not cause pain, however, if it is large in size, it can compress the nerve trunks and meninges. If hemorrhage develops, the pain increases significantly.	In addition to headaches, seizures may occur. With hemorrhage, progressive neurological deficits develop ( disturbance of movements, sensitivity, speech, vision, etc.).
*Hypertonic disease*	It is one of the most common pathologies among the population. It is a condition in which, due to many possible causes, the pressure in the arterial vascular system rises above 140/90. In this case, the vessels change pathologically and have a detrimental effect on surrounding tissues. Many patients, during an increase in blood pressure, report a headache with a predominant localization in the back of the head, accompanied by tinnitus. It should be noted that hypertension significantly increases the risk of stroke and intracranial hemorrhage.	Often this disease is asymptomatic. Manifestations depend on the level of pressure.
*Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels*	Atherosclerosis is a pathology that affects all vessels of the human body. With this disease, due to impaired fat metabolism, cholesterol plaques form in the walls of blood vessels, which narrow the lumen of the arteries, which causes circulatory problems. As a result, a state of oxygen starvation of the brain occurs, which is manifested by fatigue, apathy, and headaches. In addition, vessels with atherosclerotic changes are much more likely to be affected by blood clots, which can completely block the lumen and cause a stroke.	The disease also often develops without any symptoms. It can be predicted in the early stages only based on the results of preventive blood tests.
*Cerebral aneurysm*	It is a pathological protrusion of a section of a vessel within the brain. Develops after injuries, against the background of infection, with high blood pressure. When the meninges are compressed, it can cause pain in the back of the head. If the medulla is damaged, other neurological manifestations may occur. The main danger of aneurysms is their rupture and intracranial hemorrhage.	In most cases, cerebral aneurysms are discovered incidentally.
*Rupture of cerebral aneurysm with intracranial hemorrhage*	When an aneurysm ruptures, blood leaves the vascular bed and accumulates in the skull, which is a closed cavity. As a result, intracranial pressure increases significantly, which leads to disruption of the blood supply to healthy areas, and compression of the brain tissue occurs. In addition, the blood has an irritating effect on the meninges, thereby causing severe and sudden headaches.	It is a life-threatening condition. Requires immediate medical attention.
*Stagnation of blood in the veins of the brain*	Impaired blood circulation in the cerebral veins can occur both with local damage and with a systemic change in blood circulation ( heart failure, mediastinal tumors, constrictive pericarditis, etc.). As a result, the outflow of decay products and carbon dioxide from the brain is disrupted, which leads to headaches.	Usually accompanied by increased intracranial pressure and a number of other manifestations associated with heart failure.
*Vertebrobasilar syndrome*	This syndrome develops when there is insufficiency of the vessels located at the base of the brain and forming its main supply network. Due to decreased blood supply, a headache occurs.	Accompanied by a disorder of motor and sensory function.

External reasons

Pain in the back of the head can also be caused by a number of external reasons, that is, factors affecting the body from the outside and causing any response. In most cases, the time of exposure to these external causes is short, and they do not cause chronic or irreversible changes in the body. However, it should be borne in mind that some toxic substances begin to cause a clinical picture only after a sufficiently long exposure and their removal from the body requires special measures.

External causes of pain in the back of the head

Name of the disease	Affected anatomical structure	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Poisoning with medicinal and toxic substances*	The heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, brain and other internal organs may be affected.	Under the influence of toxic substances, the function of internal organs is disrupted, pathological decay products accumulate in the body, which adversely affect the functioning of the brain and other vital organs. Against the background of this process, weakness, apathy, and severe headaches are observed.	The clinical picture varies greatly depending on the toxic substance. In most cases, nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, and disturbances of consciousness are observed.
*Heatstroke (sunstroke)*	Central nervous system.	With this pathology, the entire body suffers, as overheating occurs, which normal physiological mechanisms of thermoregulation are not able to cope with. As a result, the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems is disrupted, and the central nervous system is also affected. Various manifestations arise, among which a headache localized in the back of the head may develop.	The main manifestation of the disease is redness of the skin, respiratory failure, disruption of the heart with the occurrence of fainting and weakness. Often there are disturbances of consciousness with hallucinations.

Injuries

Injuries to the bones, soft tissues and brain matter in the back of the head are one of the most obvious and common causes of pain in this part of the body. It should be noted that due to the proximity of vital nerve centers, severe trauma to the back of the head does not in all cases result in headaches, since very often patients experience loss or serious impairment of consciousness with the development of neurological deficit. In this case, completely different symptoms arise, and the subjective sensation of pain, which the patient is unable to report, is excluded from the clinical picture.

Typically, trauma to the back of the head occurs as a result of a blow with a blunt object, after a fall from a height, as well as after road accidents. The strength, speed and direction of the blow, as well as the degree of tissue damage, play a decisive role in the prognosis of recovery after injury.

Consequences of a head injury

Name of the disease	Affected anatomical structure	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Brain concussion*	*Brain and meninges*	With a concussion, swelling of the nervous tissue develops, which impairs its function and leads to an increase in intracranial pressure. As a result, pressure on sensitive nerve endings increases and severe headaches occur.	Nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness may occur.
*Subluxation of the cervical vertebrae*	*Cervical vertebrae*	With subluxation, there is some displacement of the articular surfaces of the vertebrae relative to each other without complete rupture of the ligamentous apparatus. In this case, the mobility of the neck is impaired, severe pain occurs in the area of dislocation, spreading to the back of the head. Pain is associated with irritation of the joint capsule, swelling of soft tissues, as well as compression of the spinal nerve roots.	The victim cannot turn his head, any movement in the cervical spine causes severe pain. To avoid further damage, the cervical spine must be kept as motionless as possible, and reinforced with a special collar as soon as possible.
*Soft tissue damage*	*Muscles and tendons of the neck*	When the muscles or tendons of the back of the head are torn or damaged, the occurrence of pain is associated with irritation of the nerve endings located in the thickness of these tissues.	Local swelling occurs, the skin is damaged in most cases ( under the influence of a damaging factor).
*Bone fracture*	*Bones of the skull or cervical spine*	Damage occurs to the periosteum - a thin membrane covering the bones, in which a huge number of nerve endings are located. In addition, bone fragments have an irritating and traumatic effect on the surrounding soft tissue.	By palpating the occipital part of the skull, a bone defect corresponding to the fracture area can be determined.
*Intracranial hemorrhage*	*Intracranial vessels*	Severe head trauma can cause one or more blood vessels to rupture, leading to intracranial bleeding. In this case, due to an increase in intracranial pressure and irritation of the meninges, a severe headache occurs, which can be accompanied by reflex immobility of the occipital region.	Bleeding is usually accompanied by focal impairment of neurological function ( changes in reflexes, visual disturbances, speech, movements).

Local diseases

Diseases of the skin and soft tissues of the back of the head are also possible causes of the development of pain localized in this region. In most cases, these diseases appear on the skin, have an acute and violent course and are therefore easily diagnosed.

Pathologies of the skin of the back of the head

Name of the disease	Affected anatomical structure	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Furuncle*	*Hair follicle*	Purulent-necrotic inflammation of the hair follicle and surrounding tissues occurs with the formation of pus. Pain occurs under the influence of pro-inflammatory biologically active substances, as well as due to the pressure exerted by the contents on the skin.	Typically located in the neck area, but can occur in any area where there is hair. In most cases it is caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
*Abrasion*	*Superficial layers of skin*	Under the influence of a traumatic factor and increased friction, a defect occurs in the surface layer of the skin, in which a large number of nerve endings are located.	Diagnosis is not a problem, since the patient usually remembers the moment of injury when he received the abrasion.
*Erysipelas of the scalp*	*Leather*	When infectious agents penetrate into the thickness of the skin, an infectious-inflammatory process occurs, accompanied by swelling and redness of the skin, fever, and headaches. In severe cases, ulcers and blisters may form.	Caused by pyogenic streptococci. Requires competent antibacterial treatment, and if ineffective or severe, surgical intervention.

Bone diseases

Congenital and acquired diseases of the skull bones often manifest as pain, which can also be localized in the back of the head.

Diseases of the skull bones

Name of the disease	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Skull bone tumors*	Tumors are the uncontrolled growth of a certain group of cells. In this case, some volumetric formation is formed, which spreads to other areas and tissues. With tumors of the skull bones, compression of both the periosteum and the brain structures and meninges can occur, which can lead to headaches. In addition, tumor processes are often accompanied by paraneoplastic syndrome, which occurs as a result of an immune reaction against tumor cells. With this syndrome, various neurological, metabolic, hormonal and electrolyte disturbances may occur, which may also be accompanied by pain in the back of the head.	Primary tumors grow relatively slowly, but the disease is difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Sometimes during this period pain is the first and only symptom.
*Paget's disease*	Due to disruption of the processes of growth and organization of bone tissue, dystrophic deformation of the skull bones occurs.	Other bones in the body may also be affected. In most cases, the disease does not manifest itself in any way and is detected by chance.
*Periostitis*	With this disease, infectious agents attack the periosteum. In this case, an inflammatory reaction occurs, which causes pain.	Other symptoms include fever, chills, redness of the skin over the inflamed area, general weakness, malaise, and sweating.

Infectious diseases

The group of infectious causes of pain in the back of the head includes serious infectious diseases that affect the nerve tissue or the membranes surrounding it. These diseases are extremely dangerous and require timely diagnosis and proper treatment.

Infectious diseases accompanied by pain in the back of the head

Name of the disease	Affected anatomical structure	Mechanism of pain	Features of the disease
*Meningitis*	*Meninges*	Infectious agents cause inflammation of the meninges, which leads to increased production of cerebrospinal fluid with increased intracranial pressure, which causes severe headaches. In most cases, the pain covers the entire head. However, due to a reflex spasm of the muscles of the back of the head, pain in this area may be somewhat noticeable ( especially when trying to tilt your head forward).	When the meninges and brain are damaged, in addition to severe headaches, nausea and uncontrollable vomiting, photophobia, and focal neurological symptoms occur ( impairments of vision, hearing, movement, etc.). The most striking signs of damage to the meninges are the inability to press the chin to the chest, the inability to raise a straight leg while lying down, as well as pain when pressing on the pubic symphysis ( all these manipulations cause stretching of the meninges).
*Encephalitis*	*Brain matter*	With an infectious lesion of the medulla, the clinical picture is based on neurological symptoms, but after a while the same manifestations occur as with meningitis. In this case, pain in the back of the head also occurs due to muscle contraction.

Psychogenic pain in the back of the head

Psychogenic pain is pain that does not have any organic cause and is associated solely with the psycho-emotional state of a person. Typically, this type of pain syndrome occurs after severe stress or overwork. Previously, such diseases were classified as hysterical disorders, but at the moment they are defined rather as conversion disorders ( transformation of repressed experiences through the unconscious level) or functional impairment. They are characterized by a variety of symptoms, which can vary significantly not only in different patients, but also in the same patient in different situations. These pains disappear during sleep, in a state of hypnosis, and also when the person’s consciousness is distracted by something else.

Despite the fact that these pains do not have a clear organic substrate, they should not be taken lightly. In most cases, people suffering from such functional disorders do so unconsciously and actually need medical help. However, it should be understood that for this disease, conventional treatment and painkillers are ineffective. In most cases, treatment requires a course of psychotherapy.

Diseases of internal organs

Pain in the back of the head is not always associated with pathologies of structures located in this region. Moreover, in some cases, pain occurs as one of the manifestations of a disease of the internal organs. It should be understood that pain in the back of the head is only one, often rather uninformative sign.

Pain in the back of the head can occur with the following diseases of the internal organs:

Anemia. Anemia affects red blood cells ( red blood cells). In this case, either their quantitative defect or qualitative defect occurs ( insufficient hemoglobin formation). As a result, oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues is disrupted. In this case, pain in the back of the head may occur due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain and neck muscles.
Heart failure. In heart failure, the pumping function of the heart muscle is impaired. At the same time, the rate of blood circulation decreases and a situation arises in which the tissues receive less blood, and therefore oxygen, than they need. The result is headaches, general malaise and other more serious symptoms.
Diabetes. In diabetes mellitus, headaches can occur due to incorrect use of medications aimed at lowering blood glucose levels. Too much reduction in sugar levels can cause pain in the back of the head, clouding of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, sweating and other symptoms.

Diagnosis of the cause of pain in the back of the head

As noted above, pain in the back of the head can be caused by a variety of reasons. That is why the diagnostic process, or, in fact, determining the cause of pain, is perhaps the most important stage. The more accurately the diagnosis can be made, the more effective the prescribed treatment will be. Since pain in the back of the head can accompany a variety of diseases, quite a lot of diagnostic tests may be required. In the diagnostic process, doctors try to move from simple to complex methods. First, simple tests are performed by a general practitioner in his or her office. Based on the data of this examination, other, more complex and expensive procedures are prescribed ( laboratory diagnostics, instrumental methods). At the very end, additional, highly targeted tests may be needed to detect rare pathologies.

The main diagnostic methods used to determine the causes of pain in the back of the head are:

taking anamnesis;
physical examination;
serological blood test;
lumbar puncture;
radiography;

History taking

Anamnesis is the information that the doctor obtains by analyzing the patient’s complaints and asking him various questions. For pain in the back of the head, this stage is very important, as it allows you to immediately assume or exclude some pathologies without additional research.

When taking a medical history, it is important to obtain the following information from the patient:

age, as some diseases ( vascular atherosclerosis, hypertension) more typical for older people;
occupation, since pain may be associated with occupational factors ( contact with toxins, noise, hypothermia or overheating, etc.);
moment of first appearance of pain ( appeared suddenly or gradually increased);
nature of pain ( pulsating, constant, periodic, bursting, etc.);
accompanying symptoms, as they help determine the underlying pathology ( enlarged lymph nodes, pain in other parts of the body, fever, cramps, etc.);
provoking factors that are especially noticeable in migraines ( pain appears after a sharp light, sound, etc., and the patient usually notices this connection himself);
recent pathologies or chronic diseases.

Comprehensive information collected at this stage helps to correctly draw up a further research plan.

Physical examination

A physical examination is a series of simple procedures that do not require much time or the use of additional equipment. As a rule, they are carried out by a general practitioner during the initial examination of the patient, immediately after collecting an anamnesis.

To determine the cause of pain in the back of the head, the following examination methods may be useful:

Palpation of the back of the head. When you feel the back of your head, you can detect increased pain. Then we are most likely talking about injury or diseases of the soft tissues. Also at this stage, they try to detect enlarged lymph nodes, tension in the neck muscles ( sometimes accompanies meningitis).
Examination of the back of the head. A thorough examination of the scalp and upper neck can help detect scratches, bruises and other soft tissue injuries. Sometimes it is possible to detect a boil in the infiltration stage ( when pus formation has not yet occurred).
Pressure measurement. Blood pressure is measured without fail. If it is higher than 140/90 mmHg, hypertension may be the cause of the pain. High pressure ( systolic more than 160 – 180 mm Hg. Art.) requires urgent measures to reduce it, since the risk of heart attack or stroke is high.
Temperature measurement. The presence of a high temperature usually indicates an inflammatory process. With meningitis, for example, the temperature rises quickly and can reach 40 degrees or more. It is somewhat lower in other infectious diseases, as well as in cases of suppuration in soft tissues.
Head tilts. The pain may intensify when the head is tilted if the problem is pinched spinal roots in the cervical spine. Severe pain when bending the head forward in a lying position ( chin touches sternum) is a sign of meningitis.

General blood analysis

A general blood test reflects the number of certain cells. Blood for this test is usually taken from a finger prick. Eating does not greatly affect the concentration of blood cells. This analysis is mandatory during hospitalization, as it provides general information about the functioning of the body. For pain in the back of the head, he is unlikely to make a final diagnosis, but he will tell you what other studies are needed.

The following indicators are of greatest importance in a general blood test:

Red blood cell level. When the level of red blood cells is low, anemia is diagnosed, which can cause pain in the back of the head.
White blood cell level. A high white blood cell count usually indicates intense inflammation or infection.
Platelet level. The blood's ability to clot depends on the level of platelets. Its increase indicates the possibility of a stroke.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate ( ESR) . An increase in ESR above 15 mm/h ( for pregnant women the norm is up to 25 – 30 mm/h) usually indicates an inflammatory process or infection.

Blood chemistry

A biochemical blood test determines the amount of various substances. It can vary greatly with various pathologies. In general, biochemical analysis reflects the functioning of internal organs. As noted above, some diseases can lead to pain in the back of the head. Therefore, to make an accurate diagnosis, it is important to know which organ or system is affected.

The following indicators play an important role in the interpretation of the result:

Hemoglobin. Decreased hemoglobin level ( the lower limit of normal in adults is 120 g/l) indicates anemia, which may be the cause of pain in the back of the head.
Transaminases and bilirubin. Alanine aminotransferase ( ALAT) and aspartate aminotransferase ( ASAT) are enzymes of liver cells. An increase in their level above 38 and 42 U/L, respectively, may indicate a liver problem. Bilirubin tends to directly irritate the membranes of the brain, causing severe headaches. Its level is normal – up to 20 µmol/l.
C-reactive protein. An increase in the level of C-reactive protein may indicate an acute inflammatory process. It will be increased, for example, with the formation of a carbuncle or other purulent diseases of the soft tissues of the head. It also increases with some infections ( for example, purulent meningitis). The normal level of C-reactive protein is up to 0.5 mg/l.
Uric acid and urea. The accumulation of uric acid and urea in the blood occurs when kidney function is impaired. The body becomes intoxicated with its own metabolic products, which causes pain in the head in general and in the back of the head in particular.
Ketone bodies and lactic acid. Not included in routine testing in many hospitals. They may increase with metabolic acidosis ( a shift in blood pH to an acidic environment), in which the membranes of the brain are also irritated and headaches occur.
Glucose. Elevated glucose levels indicate a predisposition to diabetes mellitus ( or about the disease itself). The norm is 3.88 – 5.83 mmol/l.
Cholesterol and lipoprotein fractions. Elevated cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels ( LDL) may indicate problems with blood vessels ( deterioration of blood circulation in the vessels of the brain, aneurysms, high risk of stroke). The cholesterol level is 3 – 6 mmol/l, and LDL is 1.92 – 4.8 mmol/l.
Methemoglobin. It is a modified hemoglobin that loses its ability to carry oxygen. Normally it is absent in the blood, but can appear during poisoning with certain chemicals ( for example, pesticides).

Before donating blood for biochemical analysis, you are not allowed to eat, smoke or drink alcohol ( within 8 – 10 hours before blood collection). Otherwise the result will be distorted.

Serological blood test

A serological blood test can identify antigens of various infections or antibodies to these antigens. This can confirm the diagnosis of some infectious diseases. Once the type of infection is determined, the necessary antibiotics can be prescribed. This will reduce the inflammatory process in the area of the meninges and eliminate pain.

Lumbar puncture

A lumbar puncture is an injection between the lumbar vertebrae, in which a needle penetrates the subarachnoid space. The purpose of a diagnostic puncture is to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. Since it circulates freely in the cavities of the brain and spinal cord, with the help of this analysis it is possible to draw conclusions about pathological processes in the skull. The cerebrospinal fluid sample is also subjected to serological, biochemical and microscopic examination.

For back pain, a lumbar puncture can provide the following information:

Glucose level. The normal level of glucose in the cerebrospinal fluid is approximately 2.8 - 3.9 mmol/L, or half the glucose level in the blood. With tuberculous meningitis, for example, the level of glucose in the cerebrospinal fluid drops.
Protein level. Normal protein level is 0.16 – 0.33 g/l. Its amount may decrease or increase depending on the type of pathological process.
White blood cell level. It increases greatly during infectious processes in the brain. Lymphocytes increase with tuberculosis, fungal or viral infection, and neutrophils increase with bacterial infection ( meningococcal infection, neurosyphilis, etc.). Lymphocytes and neutrophils are types of leukocytes, white blood cells.
Red blood cell level. The detection of red blood cells in the cerebrospinal fluid indicates the presence of blood. This usually occurs when blood vessels rupture or after injuries to the skull or spine.
CSF transparency. Normally, the cerebrospinal fluid is colorless and only slightly cloudy. Severe cloudiness, a yellowish tint, or the appearance of flakes of pus indicate infection.
Pressure in the spinal canal. If during a puncture cerebrospinal fluid leaks under pressure ( when measuring more than 200 mm of water column), this speaks in favor of increased intracranial pressure or meningitis.
Microscopic and serological analysis. It is carried out to detect microorganisms and their antigens. If bacteria or viral antigens are found in the cerebrospinal fluid, this may indicate an infectious process in the cranial cavity, which causes pain in the back of the head. In particular, it is possible to detect and confirm meningococcal meningitis, tuberculous meningitis and other infections.

Lumbar puncture is therefore a very informative test that can confirm or rule out many different diagnoses. However, due to the complexity of implementation and the risk of possible complications ( increased headaches, infection, etc.) it is not used very often. Usually they try to prescribe safer and simpler procedures first.

Radiography

Radiography is the study of body tissue using x-rays. This test is very common, painless and completely safe ( the dose of radiation received does not cause any harm to a healthy person). Pictures are taken in frontal and lateral projection.

X-rays for pain in the back of the head can help identify the following pathologies:

occipital bone cracks;
fractures;
formations in brain tissue ( tumors, hematomas);
bone density ( may be affected by some systemic or genetic diseases);
curvature of the spine in the cervical region.

CT scan

CT scan ( CT) also uses x-rays. However, in this case, a series of photographs are taken in different projections, and the resulting data is processed using a computer. The result is a series of virtual layer-by-layer slices. A tomogram, compared to an x-ray, shows various anatomical formations much better. With the introduction of special contrast agents, vascular aneurysms and other minor defects can be detected. Currently, there are a number of modifications of X-ray computed tomography that can be prescribed in various situations.

For pain in the back of the head, CT is prescribed if there is reason to suspect formations in the cranial cavity, or in case of head injuries. Without indications, the appointment of CT is unjustified due to the high cost and complexity of the study.

Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI is used in the same cases as CT, but allows you to visualize other anatomical structures and with greater accuracy. The method is based on recording the electromagnetic response of atomic nuclei ( usually hydrogen). Simply put, tissues are separated in an image based on the amount of fluid they contain.

MRI allows us to evaluate not only the structure of tissues, but also the functioning of various systems. In particular, in some modes ( MR perfusion) you can establish the degree of blood supply to a particular department. This study is very informative, but also very expensive. Therefore, it is prescribed only in cases where other diagnostic methods have failed to detect the cause of pain, and empirical treatment ( assigned based on available data) Does not help.

Doppler examination

Cerebral Doppler is a study aimed at measuring the intensity of blood flow. It is completely painless and does not take much time. Special sensors are installed on the projection of the passage of large vessels, which measure the speed of blood flow using ultrasound. Based on the data obtained, one can draw conclusions about vascular tone, the presence of oxygen starvation of tissues and other pathological processes. This research method is prescribed for suspected hypertension in the arteries of the brain, increased intracranial pressure, cerebral aneurysms, and migraine.

Electroencephalography

This method is aimed at studying the electrical activity of the brain. It is also painless and the cost is relatively low. Special sensors are placed on the patient's head to detect electrical vibrations in various projections. The data is processed by a computer and a record of brain activity is recorded over a certain period of time. EEG is a completely safe and painless research method.

Using this method you can obtain the following data:

assessment of the brain after injury;
disturbances of blood circulation in brain tissue;
stroke risk assessment;
inflammation in the brain area ( meningitis, encephalitis);
detection of neoplasms.

How to get rid of pain in the back of the head?

Treatment of pain in the back of the head is aimed primarily at eliminating the pain itself. The problem is that some pain ( for example, for migraines or high blood pressure) do not disappear when taking regular painkillers. In these cases, the use of other medications is required. Thus, when treating pain in the back of the head, one should proceed primarily from the causes that cause this pain.

At the first stage, the patient should contact a family doctor or therapist, who will first determine the cause. At the same time, they can try to relieve pain with regular painkillers. Most often, it is these specialists who manage to understand the situation and help the patient. To prevent the occurrence of pain in the back of the head in the future, more serious treatment may be prescribed. Its task is not to eliminate the pain itself, but to eliminate the causes that cause it.

Most often in medical practice it is necessary to treat pain in the back of the head caused by the following reasons:

hypertensive crisis;
meningitis;
migraine;
increased intracranial pressure;
concussion;
heat or sunstroke;

Hypertensive crisis

All patients who exhibit increased blood pressure are divided into 2 groups - uncomplicated hypertensive crisis and complicated. In both cases, pain in the back of the head of varying intensity may appear. To eliminate it, you need to reduce the pressure. Depending on the clinical manifestations, patients are provided with appropriate medical care.

When treating uncomplicated hypertensive crisis, the following tactics are followed:

hospitalization is usually not necessary;
hypertensive crisis is treated with oral medications ( tablets);
sources of strong irritants are eliminated ( noise, light, smells) and provides access to fresh air;
it is advisable for the patient to take a semi-sitting position in bed;
every 15 - 30 minutes blood pressure ( HELL) and heart rate ( pulse) are measured repeatedly until the general condition improves;
it is recommended to reduce the pressure slowly over 1 hour or two;
if blood pressure numbers remain elevated, repeat the medication after half an hour;
after improvement, consult your doctor to prescribe adequate therapy with long-acting antihypertensive drugs.

Drug treatment of pain in the back of the head due to hypertensive crisis

Drug name	Composition and release form	Dosage and regimen
*Captopril* *(Capoten)*	Tablets 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg	Sublingual ( under the tongue), orally 25, 50 mg. The effect develops after 10 - 15 minutes. The pressure decreases for 4 - 5 hours. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
*Nifedipine* *(Cordaflex, Corinfar)*	10 mg tablets	Sublingually, orally 5 or 10 mg. The pressure decreases for 4 - 5 hours. Can be used in pregnant women. Contraindicated with increased heart rate ( more than 80 beats per minute), symptoms of cerebrovascular accident, decompensation of heart failure.
*Moxonidine* *(Physiotens)*	Tablets 0.2 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg	Sublingually, orally 0.2 - 0.4 mg.
*Propranolol* *(Anaprilin, Obzidan)*	Tablets 10, 40 mg	Prescribed for increased heart rate ( more than 80 beats per minute) orally 40 mg. The drug is contraindicated if the heart rate is less than 55 per minute.
*Clonidine* *(Clonidine)*	Tablets 75 mcg, 150 mcg	Orally 150 mcg.

For concomitant pain in the heart, nitroglycerin is used under the tongue. In order to reduce anxiety and excitability, you can take Corvalol ( 30 - 40 drops) or 20 drops of valerian root infusion, diluted in warm water.

Complicated hypertensive crisis is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical intervention. Treatment of this pathology is carried out in a hospital, in the intensive care unit or intensive care unit, using parenteral administration of drugs ( injection form). Pain in the back of the head in this case fades into the background, since there is a threat to the patient’s life.

The following groups of pharmacological drugs are used:

vasodilators ( sodium nitroprusside, nitroglycerin, enalaprilat);
antiadrenergic drugs ( phentolamine);
diuretics, or diuretics ( furosemide);
neuroleptics ( droperidol).

But first aid should begin to be provided before the arrival of the cardiology team, since it is necessary to reduce blood pressure in this condition in a shorter period of time ( from 30 to 60 minutes, reduce average blood pressure by at least 25%) to prevent irreversible consequences. By performing the above measures, the chances of a successful outcome increase significantly.

Similar tactics for treating pain in the back of the head will be used for hypertensive encephalopathy. The basis of the treatment of hypertensive encephalopathy is the normalization of blood pressure for a long time. Regular long-term use of antihypertensive drugs without sudden interruption of treatment is very important. Otherwise, pain in the back of the head may return or intensify.

Antiplatelet therapy, nootropic drugs, and drugs for the treatment of asthenic-depressive syndrome are used. Medicines are prescribed in combination, in long courses of 1 - 3 months.

Antiplatelet therapy(for the prevention of thrombosis)includes the following drugs:

acetylsalicylic acid ( aspirin) at a dose of 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg 1 time per day;
clopidogrel ( Plavix, Lopirel) 75 mg 1 time per day;
dipyridamole ( Chime) tablets 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, apply 75 mg 3 - 4 times a day.

From nootropic drugs(to improve cognitive functions and brain metabolism)the following means are used:

piracetam ( Memotropil, Lucetam) tablets 0.8 - 1.2 g 2 - 3 times a day;
vinpocetine ( Cavinton) tablets 5 - 10 mg 2 - 3 times a day;
nicergoline ( Sermion) tablets 5 - 10 mg 3 times a day.

From the group of antidepressants(to correct disturbances in the emotional sphere)The following drugs may be prescribed:

amitriptyline ( Saroten retard) 25 mg 1 - 2 tablets at night;
imipramine ( Melipramine) 25 mg 1 - 3 times a day;
sertraline ( Zoloft, Stimuloton) 50 mg, 100 mg - 1 tablet per day.

Complete treatment of hypertension and hypertensive encephalopathy is selected individually by the attending physician. Doses and groups of drugs may be different in each specific case. Properly selected comprehensive treatment will effectively relieve the patient of periodic pain in the back of the head.

Crack or fracture of the occipital bone

Treatment for an occipital bone injury depends on the type of injury, the age of the victim, and the symptoms that develop as a result of such injuries. The pain syndrome in this case is very strong, so they try to relieve it urgently. The victim must be hospitalized in the neurosurgical department. If consciousness is preserved, transport in a horizontal position, with the head fixed. If soft tissue is damaged, an aseptic bandage is applied. If the victim is unconscious, he is placed in a half-turn position and his head is turned to the side. This position helps avoid aspiration ( liquid entering the respiratory tract) in case of vomiting.

Depending on the severity of the injury, conservative or surgical treatment is required. When a doctor diagnoses a crack in the occipital bone and there is no displacement of bone fragments, conservative treatment will be carried out. Consultations with a neurologist, ENT doctor, ophthalmologist, and surgeon are mandatory. Strict bed rest is prescribed for 7 to 14 days, and the head is placed in an elevated position. The load in the form of watching TV, reading, and computer games is eliminated.

The following medications are used for treatment:

Pain relief medications. To relieve pain, it is undesirable to use drugs from the group of non-narcotic analgesics ( painkillers) to avoid respiratory depression. The most commonly prescribed medications are from the NSAID group ( non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) . These include ketoprofen ( intramuscularly or intravenously) 50 mg or 2 ml three times a day, ketorolac ( Ketanov) intramuscularly 30 mg twice a day, diclofenac intramuscularly - 75 mg once a day.
Antibacterial drugs. With cracks, rupture of the dura mater is possible. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed to prevent purulent intracranial complications. The drugs are used for intramuscular, intravenous and endolumbar administration ( injection into the spinal canal). The choice of a broad-spectrum antibiotic is made according to the situation.
Dehydration therapy. Most often, a crack in the occipital bone is accompanied by damage to the medulla ( concussion or bruise) with the development of local cerebral edema. The drug of choice for dehydration therapy is diacarb, since its use reduces the production of cerebrospinal fluid. It is available in 250 mg tablets. Prescribed 1 tablet 1 - 3 times a day. You can also use the diuretic drug furosemide in tablets of 40 mg once a day or an injection form for intramuscular or intravenous administration of 20 mg.

Severe injuries require surgical treatment. The fact is that damage to the occipital bone rarely occurs in isolation. Often there is combined damage to the occipital, sphenoid, ethmoid and temporal bones ( these bones form the base of the skull). Such injuries are considered the most severe and can be fatal. Displaced fractures ( debris moves more than 1 cm into the cranial cavity) and depressed fractures must be treated surgically. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, craniotomy is performed ( formation of a hole in the skull), foreign bodies, bone fragments, destroyed and dead tissue are removed. In the postoperative period, narcotic painkillers can be used to relieve pain.

Meningitis

All patients with suspected meningitis, regardless of the microorganism that caused it, must be hospitalized either in an infectious diseases department or in a specialized neuro-infectious department. At the prehospital stage, without examining the cerebrospinal fluid, it is difficult to differentiate serous meningitis from purulent meningitis or to exclude any complications. To eliminate pain in the back of the head with meningitis, it is necessary to reduce inflammation, normalize intracranial pressure, and lower body temperature. Therefore, the treatment will be complex.

Treatment, depending on the developing symptoms and condition of the patient, is carried out in the following areas:

antibacterial drugs;
treatment of infectious-toxic shock;
treatment of cerebral edema;
relief of seizures.

All drugs are administered intravenously. If intravenous access is not possible, injections are given intramuscularly.

If the most common meningococcal meningitis is suspected, the following treatment is prescribed:

To reduce body temperature - metamizole sodium ( Analgin) 50% 0.1 ml/year in children, in adults - 2 ml; diphenhydramine 1% 0.1 ml/year in children, in adults 2 - 3 ml; papaverine 2% 0.1 ml/year in children, in adults 2 ml.
Diuretics are prescribed to reduce intracranial pressure. Furosemide in children 1 - 2 mg/kg/24 hours or 20 mg/2 ml intravenously, for adults - 40 mg.
To relieve seizures - diazepam 0.5% 2 - 4 ml of solution, for children 0.1 - 0.2 ml/year.
If there are signs of cerebral edema, glucocorticoid drugs are prescribed. The most common are prednisolone ( 1 - 2 mg/kg) and dexamethasone ( 0.5 mg/kg). For adults - dexamethasone 20 - 24 mg.
Also, in severe cases, oxygen therapy may be needed ( oxygen) to maintain breathing.

If signs of infectious-toxic shock and cerebral edema develop, a more intensive course of treatment is prescribed:

dexamethasone 20 - 24 mg intravenously in adults, in children 5 - 10 mg/kg;
chloramphenicol ( chloramphenicol) 1 g intravenously in adults, in children at a dose of 25 mg/kg, or cefotaxime 50 mg/kg in children and 1 - 2 g in adults;
furosemide 20 mg/2 ml intravenously, 40 mg in adults and 1 - 2 mg/kg in children;
diazepam ( Relanium, Apaurin) 0.5% 2 - 4 ml of solution in adults, and in children - 1 mg/kg;
oxygen therapy.

Such an intensive course of treatment normalizes intracranial pressure, relieves inflammation of the dura mater, and eliminates its irritation by microbial toxins. As a result, headaches also decrease.

Migraine

When the first signs of an approaching migraine attack appear, it is necessary to interrupt the influence of stimulating factors. These irritating stimuli can be loud noises, bright lights, or activities that involve excessive physical or mental stress. If possible, you need to stop working and create conditions under which you can remain quiet for several hours and take the medicine on time. Very often, these measures are enough to successfully cope with the attack within 2 hours and return to your normal activities.

Currently, it is recommended to use a stratified approach in the treatment of migraine. This method is based on assessing the extent to which migraine affects daily activities and assessing the severity of the disease. All patients are divided into 4 groups, from group I with mild headache intensity to group IV with severe maladjustment in everyday life and intense headache. Each group uses its own medicines.

For patients with mild migraine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are usually effective ( NSAIDs) and paracetamol. They provide fairly quick and lasting pain relief, provided that the irritating external factors mentioned above are eliminated.

The most commonly used drugs in the treatment of mild forms of migraine are:

paracetamol tablets 500 mg ( Panadol, Efferalgan, Daleron);
ibuprofen tablets 400 mg ( Nurofen, Mig 400, Advil);
diclofenac tablets, suppositories 50 mg, 100 mg ( Voltaren, Naklofen);
ketorolac tablets 10 mg ( Ketanov, Ketolak);
naproxen tablets 250 mg and 550 mg ( Nalgesin, Naproxen).

When treating migraine attacks with moderate intensity, drugs from the NSAID group can also be used. If there is no effect, they resort to combination drugs that contain NSAIDs and caffeine or codeine.

Of these combination drugs for the treatment of migraine, the following drugs are the most common:

caffetin;
sedalgin;
spasmoveralgin.

Ergot preparations are also effective. Of these, ergotamine is often used ( Caffeamine, Nomigren) 1 - 2 tablets during an attack. An alternative remedy is Dihydroergotamine ( used in the form of tablets 2.5 mg up to 4 tablets per day, in drops of 20 drops - 2 mg or as a nasal spray).

In situations where migraine is accompanied by pain of high intensity, triptan drugs are used, and in some cases, opioid analgesics.

Among opioid analgesics, the following drugs are used in the treatment of severe migraine attacks:

tramadol in tablets of 50 or 100 mg, injection forms of 50 or 100 mg for intramuscular administration;
combination drugs - tramadol with paracetamol ( Zaldiar, Ramlepsa), which give excellent results for the rapid improvement of the patient's condition.

Triptans are a group of medications that are considered the “gold standard” in the treatment of migraine attacks. The drugs are used to relieve an attack, to prevent it, and also prevent the chronicity of migraine pain.

Of the triptan drugs, the most effective are the following:

sumatriptan ( Imigran, Trimigren, Sumamigren) - used in the form of tablets, suppositories and nasal spray;
eletriptan ( Relpax) tablets 40 mg;
zolmitriptan ( Zomig) tablets 2.5 mg.

The following rules have been developed for taking these drugs. When an attack is approaching, it is recommended to take 1 tablet ( minimum dose). If the pain has completely resolved within 2 hours, you can return to your daily activities. If the pain decreases after 2 hours, but does not disappear completely, it is recommended to take another tablet. At the next attack, you can immediately use a double dose of the medication. In cases where taking the drug does not relieve a migraine attack, the medication is considered ineffective and they switch to other drugs from the triptan series or choose another manufacturer. There are also contraindications to the use of triptans. They are not used in children and patients over 65 years of age. Also contraindications are high blood pressure, angina pectoris, atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, breastfeeding, pregnancy.

If severe attacks of migraine pain are accompanied by vomiting or nausea, the following antiemetics are recommended:

domperidone ( Damelium, Motilium) 10 mg tablets are taken 3 times a day;
metoclopramide ( Cerucal) tablets 10 mg 3 times a day.

Increased intracranial pressure

By and large, intracranial pressure is more of a syndrome than an independent disease. It usually develops against the background of other pathologies. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to treat the underlying disease, the consequence of which is already an increase in intracranial pressure.

There are a number of general recommendations that will help reduce headaches with this pathology. It is necessary to reduce fluid intake, adhere to a diet with limited salt, and try not to overheat.

In parallel, the following symptomatic drugs are used to lower the level of ICP (intracranial pressure) and maintain the normal functional state of brain tissue:

Diuretics. Diuretics remove excess fluid, which reduces the production of cerebrospinal fluid and lowers ICP. Furosemide 40 mg 1-2 times a day or acetazolamide ( Diakarb) 250 mg 1 - 2 times a day. Potassium preparations are used with diuretics ( Asparkam, Panangin) 1 tablet 3 times a day.
Nootropic drugs. Of this group of drugs, the most effective are hopantenic acid ( Pantogam) 250 - 500 mg 0.5 - 1 g 2 - 3 times a day, piracetam 800 mg - 1.2 g 2 - 3 times a day, cinnarizine ( Stugeron) 25 mg 3 times a day.
Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids eliminate swelling of brain tissue that occurs as a result of meningitis or tumors. For example, for dexamethasone, the average maintenance dose is 2 - 4.5 mg, divided into 2 doses.

Additional treatment methods include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, acupuncture, and physiotherapeutic methods. In the absence of an obvious cause, ICP should be observed by a neurologist, and individual treatment regimens may be used. Pain in the back of the head usually goes away as the pressure decreases.

Concussion

All victims with severe pain in the back of the head after a traumatic brain injury must be examined by a doctor - a neurosurgeon, neurologist, or ophthalmologist. Only a doctor can qualifiedly determine the severity of the injury and prescribe treatment according to the examination results ( at home or in hospital). The main task is to create psycho-emotional peace. It is advisable to observe bed rest for 5 - 7 days. It is especially important to adhere to this recommendation in the first 24 hours after injury, since complications most often develop in the first day. You should avoid watching TV, playing computer games, reading, or listening to loud music. A special diet for a concussion is not required, but you need to eliminate alcohol, caffeine, strong tea, and reduce the consumption of sweet foods.

Medications are prescribed for the following purposes:

Pain relief is necessary only for severe pain. Otherwise, the pain may go away on its own after a few days. The drugs used are paracetamol ( Panadol, Daleron, Efferalgan) - tablets 500 mg 4 times a day, ibuprofen ( Nurofen, Faspik) - 400 mg tablets up to 3 times a day.
Sedatives calm the patient and improve the restoration of nervous system functions during sleep. In these situations, you can use an infusion of valerian root 20 - 30 drops 3 - 4 times a day, an infusion of motherwort 30 - 50 drops 3 - 4 times a day, phenobarbital 100 mg in tablets 1 - 2 before bedtime as anticonvulsant prophylaxis and for the treatment of insomnia.
Nootropic drugs increase the brain’s resistance to injury and hypoxia ( oxygen starvation), improve cerebral circulation and mental activity. The most effective are vinpocetine ( Cavinton) - tablets 5 - 10 mg 2 - 3 times a day, cinnarizine ( Stugeron) - 25 mg tablets, 2 tablets 3 times a day, glycine - 100 mg tablets 2 - 3 times a day, piracetam ( Nootropil, Lucetam) - tablets 400 mg, 800 mg, 1200 mg, 1.2-2.4 g per day, divided into 2 - 3 doses.

Heatstroke or sunstroke

Heatstroke and sunstroke are medical emergencies that require immediate medical attention. Pain in the back of the head in this case will go away on its own after all the necessary treatment measures are taken. Taking painkillers is usually not required.

First of all, it is necessary to stop exposure to high temperatures. Move the victim away from the heat source or, if overheating occurred as a result of prolonged insolation ( solar exposure), in the shade or cool room.
Place the patient in a horizontal position on his back with his head elevated.
Before the ambulance arrives, reduce your body temperature. The patient must be freed from outer clothing and elements that compress it - a tie, belts, and the shirt collar must be unbuttoned. You can wrap the victim in a damp sheet or wipe with cool water, and turn on the fan.
Dehydration is characteristic of all thermal injuries, which requires restoration of the water-alkaline balance. If consciousness is preserved, they give a solution of rehydron or hydrovit to drink ( 1 sachet of the drug is diluted per liter of boiled chilled water). If these funds are not available, you can dilute 2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of salt and soda in a liter of water, stir until completely dissolved and give the victim this solution. You need to drink the liquid in small sips so as not to provoke vomiting.
If vomiting develops, the airways are cleared of vomit and the head is turned to the side.

It is not recommended to give the victim alcohol, coffee, or sweet carbonated drinks. Also, you should not rub the skin with alcohol, since as a result of these manipulations, the skin pores close and the heat transfer slows down. The effectiveness of the measures taken can be assessed by restoring consciousness and normalizing body temperature. Pain in the back of the head, which will bother the patient for some time ( hours, less often days) will gradually go away on its own. The use of painkillers is not prohibited, but may not have the desired effect. This takes time.

Furuncle

When choosing methods for treating a boil, you must be guided by the stage of its development, location, amount of purulent elements and possible complications. It is preferable to treat a single uncomplicated boil on an outpatient basis, that is, in a surgeon’s clinic. With timely treatment, you can limit yourself to the use of local drugs and avoid surgical intervention.

In the treatment of boils, before consulting a doctor, you should adhere to the following rules:

you should not use warming compresses or procedures to accelerate the maturation of the element, since such manipulations can lead to the spread of the process;
boils should not be squeezed out, as this may cause pus to penetrate deeper under the skin.

Single uncomplicated boils are treated at home. Most often, local treatment with topical drugs is used. In the infiltration stage ( the first 2 - 3 days after the boil appears) the affected area of skin is treated with ethyl alcohol 70%. You can also use salicylic alcohol 2%. After disinfecting the skin, the element is cauterized with a five percent iodine solution. Antibacterial drugs for a single uncomplicated boil are used in the form of water-soluble ointments. Effective treatment requires drugs that are active against Staphylococcus aureus ( Staphylococcus aureus), since most often these bacteria are the cause of the development of boils.

The following antibiotics are most effective in conservative treatment:

mupirocin 2% ( Bactroban, Bonderm), which is used 2-3 times a day locally on the affected area of the skin;
tetracycline ointment 3% topically 3 - 5 times a day;
ointments with chloramphenicol ( Levomekol, Sintomycin).

In case of fever, you can take paracetamol 500 mg or ibuprofen 400 mg. They will also ease pain. However, the skin on the back of your head may still hurt when you turn your head or touch it. The pain will go away completely only after elimination of the inflammatory process and resorption ( or deletion) pus.

When the boil passes into the purulent-necrotic stage, surgical treatment is indicated.
The operation is performed under local anesthesia ( Lidocaine, Trimecaine). The abscess is opened with the removal of purulent-necrotic masses, the wound is washed with a solution of hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic solutions ( Furacilin), the cavity is drained and a bandage with an antibacterial agent is applied. When the process spreads or with deeper skin lesions, systemic antibiotics with antistaphylococcal activity are used.

For systemic use, the following drugs can be used:

I - II generation cephalosporins - cefazolin ( 1 g 2 - 3 times a day intramuscularly), cefuroxime ( 1.5 mg 2 times a day intramuscularly);
amoxicillin with clavulanic acid ( 875 mg 2 times a day);
fluoroquinolones - levofloxacin ( Tavanik) 500 mg orally 1-2 times a day or intravenously and moxifloxacin ( Avelox, Moxin) orally or intravenously, 400 mg once a day.

In case of intense pain, as well as in the presence of concomitant diseases ( diabetes mellitus, hypertension, etc.) hospital treatment is recommended.

In general, treatment for pain in the back of the head should be aimed at eliminating the cause of the pain. Sometimes pain only indicates temporary problems. Then it can be easily removed with painkillers without any consequences. However, sometimes pain in the back of the head is the first symptom of serious diseases that can threaten the patient's life. Therefore, self-treatment ( especially prolonged, recurring and severe pain) Not recommended.

Features of pain in the back of the head

Why does the back of my head and eyes hurt?

In medical practice, quite often there are patients who have a combination of pain in the back of the head and in the eyes ( less often in only one eye). The mechanism of occurrence of these pains usually affects some system ( circulatory or nervous). From an anatomical point of view, the connection between the eye and the back of the head is as follows. The cranial cavity communicates with the orbital cavity through a series of openings. According to the law of communicating vessels, an increase in pressure in one cavity will increase the pressure in the other. Accordingly, the causes of such pain are usually diseases affecting intracranial pressure.

Possible causes of pain in the back of the head and in the eyes are the following pathologies:

Hypertensive crisis. During a hypertensive crisis, blood pressure rises sharply. Other symptoms include frequent complaints of pain in the head and eyes.
Migraine. Migraine pain occurs due to impaired vascular tone in the brain. The pain can be localized in different places ( sometimes in the eye area), so the back of the head-eye combination ( or just one eye) are also possible.
Head injury. After a head injury, even if there is no fracture or crack in the skull bones, a small vessel may rupture. Then a hematoma, a cavity filled with blood, forms and gradually increases in the cranial cavity. Gradually the bleeding stops, but the hematoma resolves slowly. All this time, intracranial pressure remains elevated, causing pain.
Neoplasms in the cranial cavity. With skull tumors, intracranial pressure also increases. The larger the tumor in these cases, the more severe the pain usually is.
Aneurysms. An aneurysm is a pathological expansion of a vessel in which blood stagnates. A growing aneurysm of a cerebral vessel, increasing in size, puts pressure on the nervous tissue. Intracranial pressure increases, which can also be transmitted to the orbits.

Also, similar pain can occur during certain infectious processes. For example, when pathogens enter the bloodstream, the meninges are irritated, which can cause combined pain in the back of the head and eyes. Actually inflammation of the membranes of the brain ( for example, with meningococcal meningitis) also often gives such symptoms.

Why does the back of my head and neck hurt?

The occiput and neck are closely located anatomical regions that share many structures from an anatomical point of view. For example, both of these areas are supplied with blood from the same arteries ( we are talking about the soft tissues of the back of the head covering the skull), innervated by the roots of the spinal nerves of the cervical spine. Also under the skin are muscles that originate in the area of the shoulder blades and neck and are attached to the back of the head. Thus, pain in these areas is usually associated with diseases of the above anatomical structures, common to both the back of the head and the neck.

This combination of pain can be caused by the following pathologies:

boil or carbuncle– inflammation in soft tissues with accumulation of pus causes pain in the entire anatomical area;
injuries– in case of impacts, scratches or abrasions ( especially if the skin lesions become infected) pain may occur throughout the entire healing period;
osteochondrosis of the cervical spine– salt deposits between the vertebrae lead to pinching of the spinal nerves;
displacement of the cervical vertebrae or herniated discs– also causes pinching of roots;
epidemiological myalgia– pain in the neck muscles after some infectious diseases;
myositis or fibrositis– inflammation and gradual death of muscle cells.

Neck pain can also be caused by excessive muscle tension. This symptom occurs with meningitis ( typical of meningococcal meningitis, but may also occur in other bacterial meningitis). Tension of the neck muscles is due to the fact that head movements cause a sharp increase in pain.

In general, we can conclude that combined pain in the neck and back of the head is almost always a consequence of local rather than systemic pathological processes.

Why does the back of my head hurt and why do I have a fever?

An increase in temperature with pain in the back of the head is a very important symptom in the diagnostic process. The fact is that fever most often accompanies infectious diseases. The mechanism of its development is quite simple. Foreign particles enter the bloodstream, which trigger a biochemical reaction. As a result of this reaction, pyrogens are formed - substances that can affect the thermoregulation center in the brain. As a result, the body temperature rises.

The most common causes of neck pain and fever are the following diseases:

bacterial pneumonia;
meningococcal infection;
nerve cells) of this center can be compressed, which will lead to an increase in temperature. This fever is quite rare in medical practice, but represents a serious problem. The fact is that in these cases, most antipyretic drugs are powerless.
Another possible cause of pain in the back of the head and fever is local inflammatory processes. For example, a boil in the back of the head or erysipelas causes both local pain and fever.
In any case, it is recommended to bring down the temperature with antipyretics ( paracetamol, nimesil, aspirin, etc.), if it reaches 38.5 degrees. You also need to consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis. Most often the cause will be an infectious disease.
Why does the back of my head hurt and there is a feeling of pressure in my head?
The feeling of pressure in the head is a subjective symptom, and not all patients understand it as the same sensation. Most often, this symptom develops due to increased intracranial pressure or pressure in the blood vessels. The pathologies that cause these processes are often accompanied by pain in the occipital region.
Possible causes of pressure in the head and pain in the back of the head are:
- Hypertensive crisis. During a hypertensive crisis, the pressure in the arteries becomes more than 140/90 mmHg or more. This leads to overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid, partly affecting intracranial pressure. Pain in the back of the head and a feeling of pressure in the head are just some of the possible symptoms of this disease.
- Intracranial hemorrhage. After a head injury or rupture of an artery aneurysm, a hematoma may form in the skull. This is a pathological cavity that fills with blood. The volume of this formation is growing, and the cranial cavity has limited dimensions. As a result, intracranial pressure greatly increases.
- Concussion. With a concussion, there is an accumulation of fluid in the intercellular space and changes in vascular tone. The pressure may remain elevated until the fluid is absorbed.
- Inflammation of the meninges. The inflammatory process at the level of the meninges often causes overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, irritation of sensitive nerve endings occurs.
- Aneurysm. As in the case of a hematoma, a cavity with blood forms. However, in this case it is a protrusion of the vessel wall or its expansion. This occurs due to weakness of the vascular wall or a sharp increase in blood pressure. The mechanism of pain development is the same as with an aneurysm.
There may be other causes for this combination of symptoms. To clarify the diagnosis, you need to contact a specialist who will understand the situation and prescribe effective treatment.
Why does the back of my head and temples hurt?
The occipital and temporal regions border each other, so some pathological processes can affect both of these zones. If the painful sensations are one-sided, then most likely we are talking about a superficial inflammatory process. If both temples and the back of the head hurt, the cause is diseases of the anatomical structures inside the skull.
Pain in the back of the head and temples can be caused by the following pathologies:
- Soft tissue inflammation. Scratches or abrasions in the back of the head can open the gates of infection. Then an inflammatory process develops in the thickness of the soft tissue, which is the cause of pain. The pain is localized only on one side.
- Neuralgia. The posterior branches of the facial nerve and the lesser occipital nerve pass at the border of the occipital and temporal regions. Inflammation of these nerves can also be a source of pain. In this case, the pain will also be one-sided, since bilateral inflammation of these nerves is a very rare coincidence.
- Meningitis. With bacterial or viral meningitis, the nerve endings in the membranes of the brain are irritated. The pain can be very severe and affect almost any part of the head.
- Migraine. With migraines, pain occurs due to impaired vascular tone. It can also be localized in any area. The back of the head and one or both temples may also hurt.
- Muscle diseases. In some diseases, an inflammatory or degenerative process develops in the tissue of individual muscles. With myositis or fibrositis of the muscles on the surface of the skull, the pain will, as a rule, be one-sided, but with epidemic occipital myalgia it can involve both temples.
- Bone diseases. Degenerative diseases of the skull bones can cause severe pain if the periosteum is affected. As a rule, pathological processes in the bones are local in nature, so only one side of the back of the head and one temple can hurt.
In general, it can be noted that isolated pain ( only in the back of the head) is quite rare. In the vast majority of cases, patients also have other symptoms or complaints. Only an assessment of all these symptoms together allows one to suspect the correct diagnosis.

Can the back of your head hurt during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a unique condition of the human body, which is reflected to one degree or another on the functioning of all organs and systems. Physiological changes during this period can cause a variety of manifestations even in a healthy body. If there is a predisposition to any diseases, there is a high risk of exacerbation or deterioration of the general condition.
Pain in the back of the head can appear during pregnancy for several reasons. Most often we are talking about pathologies that were not previously manifested, but against the backdrop of ongoing changes they make themselves felt. Pain may vary in duration and intensity, and may respond differently to drug treatment.
The most important role in the appearance of pain in the back of the head is played by the following changes during pregnancy:
- Hormonal changes. Under the influence of sex hormones and pregnancy hormones, a complex chain of biochemical reactions is launched. Substances are produced that affect vascular tone, increasing the risk of migraine pain. Also, hormonal changes can affect the biochemical composition of bones and muscle tone. In the presence of pathology of these tissues, pain often appears.
- Weakened immune system. The immune system normally fights foreign tissues and microbes that enter the body. The growing fetus may also be affected. Therefore, during pregnancy, the immune system works differently, somewhat weakening the body’s defenses. This explains the frequent infectious diseases in pregnant women. The appearance of pain in the back of the head can be the initial symptom of an infection - from colds to flu, meningitis and other serious illnesses.
- Changes in vascular tone. Vascular tone and heart function can change under the influence of hormonal changes or due to fluid retention in the body. Most often this is manifested by an increase in blood pressure, which causes pain in the back of the head. CSF production may also increase ( cerebrospinal fluid), an excess of which leads to increased intracranial pressure. Changes in pressure often cause migraine attacks of varying intensity.
- Autointoxication. Changes in metabolism in the body during pregnancy can cause the accumulation of any toxic substances. These substances are produced in the body as a result of normal life activities, but for some reason are not released. For example, if the bile ducts are compressed, liver function may be impaired. This will lead to the accumulation of a toxic substance called bilirubin, which irritates the lining of the brain and causes headaches.
Thus, the back of the head in pregnant women can hurt for various reasons. Theoretically, pregnant women have more prerequisites for this than the average person. The main thing is to remember that pain in the back of the head itself is only a symptom. Taking painkillers may eliminate it, but does not solve the problem that caused it. At the same time, this may be the first sign of a serious illness, potentially dangerous for both the mother and the growing fetus.
Therefore, if pain in the back of the head occurs, it is necessary to consult a specialist to identify the cause and prescribe qualified treatment. Fighting pain in the back of the head on your own can be dangerous, since during pregnancy some painkillers are contraindicated, and the dose of the permitted ones changes. In order not to harm either the mother or the child, it is recommended to seek qualified medical help.
What to do if the lymph nodes in the back of the head hurt?
The groups of lymph nodes closest to the back of the head are located on the sides of the protruding tubercle of the occipital bone, approximately 3 cm behind the auricle. Below, on the sides of the neck, another group of lymph nodes is usually palpable. Normally, these anatomical formations are a kind of filters. Lymphatic vessels flow into them, collecting waste products of cells. The lymph node itself contains several types of cells. They are responsible for delaying and neutralizing foreign or toxic substances. When a pathogenic bacterium or other foreign agent enters a lymph node, it becomes inflamed, increases in size, and may become painful to the touch. If these symptoms are pronounced, we are talking about lymphadenitis ( a disease consisting of inflammation of the lymph node itself).
If the occipital lymph nodes are enlarged, you must consult a doctor. The fact is that this symptom indicates a pathological process near the brain. That is why it is necessary to determine the nature of this pathological process as quickly as possible and begin treatment.
Possible causes of enlarged and painful lymph nodes at the back of the head may be:
- Dental diseases. Lymph from the molars of the upper jaw flows into the system of lymphatic vessels associated with the occipital lymph nodes. In this case, the process is one-sided, and the lymph nodes themselves hurt when pressed, if we are talking about purulent inflammation.
- Diseases of the external ear. Purulent inflammation can also be localized in the area of the outer ear. From there, the outflow also goes to the behind-the-ear lymph nodes, which will also be enlarged. The process is also one-way.
- Diseases of the soft tissues of the neck. For skin damage ( scratches, scratching, bruises) in the back of the head, an infection can get under the skin. This often causes local inflammatory processes. As a result of inflammation, more lymph is produced in this area, and the occipital lymph nodes become enlarged. The increase occurs on the side of the damage.
- Mononucleosis. Mononucleosis is a systemic viral infection that can affect the lymph nodes. Most often, the anterior groups of cervical lymph nodes are enlarged, but the occipital groups can also be affected. In this case, the process often occurs on both sides in parallel. The lymph nodes are usually painless to the touch.
- AIDS virus ( HIV) . HIV attacks the immune system, whose cells are also located in the lymph nodes. At a certain stage they increase ( occipital groups are affected relatively rarely). On palpation ( feeling) they are often painless, the process proceeds in parallel on both sides.
- Other infectious diseases. With many systemic infections, pathogens can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. This way they are transferred to any part of the body. If some of them stop at the level of the occipital lymph nodes, the latter will increase. The presence or absence of pain depends on the type of infection.
- Oncological diseases. In very rare cases, primary tumors or metastases are located in the occipital bone. Then the modified cells will travel through the lymphatic system to the occipital lymph nodes and can cause their inflammation ( the structure of cancer cells differs from normal, and the body often perceives them as foreign tissue).
Of course, most often local pain and enlarged lymph nodes on the back of the head go away on their own. The body fights infection, inflammation or other pathological processes on its own. However, to rule out more serious problems, it is still recommended to consult a general practitioner.
Treatment will consist of taking anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics ( if the cause is an infectious disease) or local impact on the affected area ( lotions, ointments in case of injuries or bruises). In rare cases, the source of infection moves to the lymph node area, causing the accumulation of pus in it. Then a minor surgical intervention may be required to empty the purulent cavity. However, only a qualified specialist can choose what kind of treatment is required in this particular case.
Why does the back of my head hurt when pressed?
Since the occipital region is made up primarily of the thick nuchal bone, simple finger pressure usually does not cause pain. If pain appears only when pressed, and quickly passes without it, this in itself is valuable diagnostic information. In this case, we are most likely talking about damage to the superficial soft tissues or the bone itself. Diseases of the brain or any anatomical structures located inside the skull are excluded.
When feeling the back of the head, it is also important to note whether the entire area or a specific area hurts. Sometimes pain in the back of the head is confused with soreness of the occipital lymph nodes. On palpation ( actually, feeling), it is important to check whether they are enlarged. Lymph nodes are located on the sides, a few centimeters behind the ears, and also below the back of the head, closer to the neck. Inflammation of the lymph nodes may indicate a pathological process ( infections) at the level of the skin, subcutaneous tissue or ( rarely) inside the cranial cavity.
In general, the appearance of sharp pain when pressing on the back of the head can be caused by the following reasons:
- Skin damage. Scratches, bruises, abrasions and other soft tissue injuries usually cause pain when touched.
- Bone cracks and fractures. These injuries are the result of a strong blow. Strong pressure is prohibited, as it can not only cause severe pain, but also cause the displacement of bone fragments.
- Diseases of the neck and neck muscles. A number of muscles lie on top of the occipital bone, so they can be easily felt. Sharp pain when pressed can be caused by a number of rare diseases - epidemic occipital myalgia, myositis, fibrositis, myogelosis of the cervical spine.
- Carbuncle, boil. A carbuncle is a large abscess, which is often located in the thickness of the soft tissues of the neck or back of the head. The pain is always present, but it can intensify sharply when touched. A furuncle is an abscess, usually smaller in size, that occurs when pyogenic microbes enter the hair follicle.
- Bone diseases. In rare cases, cancer ( tumor) diseases affect the occipital bone. Then the pressure causes severe local pain ( precisely within the tumor). The tumor itself is not always palpable. This can only be a local change in the chemical and cellular composition with deformation of the bone structure.
Thus, there can be many reasons that cause pain in the back of the head when pressed. The important thing is that among them there are potentially life-threatening diseases. Therefore, if this symptom appears, you should definitely consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis.
Why does the back of my head hurt when I exercise?
In some cases, pain in the back of the head can be periodic and appear only under certain conditions. Sometimes, for example, the pain worsens when performing heavy physical work. This may be explained by several mechanisms. All pain in the back of the head has its own origin, and the additional factor () reduces the search for the underlying disease.
Pain in the back of the head during exercise usually occurs for the following reasons:
- Change in blood pressure. This reason is the most common. During physical activity, muscles need increased blood flow. Therefore, your heart rate begins to rise, as does your blood pressure. Increasing pressure itself can already cause pain in the back of the head. This is especially typical for a sharp increase in pressure (), since the vessels do not expand gradually and do not have time to adapt to new conditions. Such pressure changes can affect intracranial pressure. The formation of cerebrospinal fluid increases, which begins to compress the nerve tissues and membranes of the brain. Finally, in people with migraines, changes in blood pressure and vascular tone can cause a sudden, severe attack of pain.
- Muscle tension. Sometimes the cause of pain in the occipital region is the contraction of the muscles located in the upper part of the neck. If the load affects the back muscles, this can affect the tone of the neck muscles and manifest as pain in the back of the head. As a rule, pain of this nature disappears quite quickly after stopping the load, and even more so after a relaxing massage.
Patients who notice a dependence of pain on physical activity should contact a specialist and inform him about this. As a rule, after examining the vessels in this area ( Doppler ultrasound or nuclear magnetic resonance) and spine ( computed tomography, radiography) it is possible to discover the cause of the pain. In any case, until the underlying pathology is detected and consultation with a specialist regarding its treatment, you should refrain from physical activity.
What to drink if the back of your head hurts?
Pain in the back of the head can appear for a variety of reasons and have varying intensities. Rare aching pains in the evenings can be attributed to fatigue or lack of sleep, which deplete the nervous system. Longer and more intense pain requires a responsible approach to treatment, as it can be a manifestation of serious diseases. However, in any case, the patient’s first desire is not to discover the cause of this symptom, but to actually eliminate or weaken it.
Most often, patients at the prehospital stage ( before seeing a doctor) resort to the most common groups of drugs that can be bought at most pharmacies without a prescription. Some of these drugs may actually relieve pain, but others may not have the desired effect.
The following drugs are most often used to relieve or ease headaches in the back of the head:
- Acetylsalicylic acid ( Aspirin) . It is a blocker of the cyclooxygenase enzyme, which is involved in the development of inflammatory processes. This drug improves blood circulation, reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Standard doses are 75–150 mg once a day, but can be increased in certain pathological processes.
- Paracetamol. Also distributed under the trade names Panadol, Efferalgan, Daleron. The effect of taking it is similar to the effect of acetylsalicylic acid, but the anti-inflammatory effect is weaker. But it effectively lowers temperature, which can also be one of the causes of pain in the back of the head. You can take paracetamol in a dose of 500 mg ( maximum for an adult – 1 g at a time or 4 g per day).
- Ibuprofen. Common analogues are Nurofen, Mig 400, Advil. Belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs). Has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. To relieve pain in the back of the head, a dose of 400 mg three times a day is usually sufficient.
- Diclofenac. Also available under the names Voltaren and Naklofen. Belongs to the group of NSAIDs. The daily dose is 100–150 mg and should be divided into 2–3 doses.
- Ketorolac. It is the active ingredient of the common drug Ketanov. Also refers to NSAIDs and has a similar therapeutic effect. Prescribed in small doses ( 10 – 30 mg at a time), the maximum total dose is 90 mg/day.
- Pentalgin. It is a combination drug. Its active ingredients are paracetamol and phenobarbital ( from the group of barbiturates). It has a stronger analgesic effect than most NSAIDs.
These drugs are good at reducing inflammatory pain and can slightly ease a migraine attack. They are widely used for a variety of diseases and that is why they often become the first remedy that patients turn to for pain in the back of the head. However, it should be remembered that the effect of these painkillers is temporary, and long-term use of them can cause serious complications ( in most cases – the appearance or exacerbation of gastric ulcer). If there is no expected effect from these substances, the dose cannot be increased. Pain may have a different origin and a different mechanism of development, which these drugs do not affect. Increasing the dose can cause serious side effects and worsen the patient's condition.
If the pain does not go away or returns, you should immediately consult a doctor to identify its cause. Only a specialist can prescribe a remedy that can certainly eliminate pain in the back of the head, since it will be directed against the disease, and not against the symptom.
Does massage help when the back of your head hurts?
The effectiveness of massage for pain in the back of the head depends entirely on the reasons that caused the pain. In some cases, massage is not only useful, but also a full-fledged component of treatment. In other cases, on the contrary, it will be contraindicated, as it can lead to a serious deterioration of the condition. The reason for this dual effect is that different diseases involve different physiological mechanisms. Massage, as a rule, always has a similar effect.
The main biological effects of massage are:
- increased blood circulation in soft tissues;
- muscle relaxation ( with a slow massage) or giving them tone ( fast paced massage);
- acceleration of metabolic processes in tissues;
- outflow of lymph and venous blood from the massaged area;
- mechanical movement ( with deep massage) anatomical structures relative to each other ( for example, forced movements in the intervertebral joints);
- normalization of physiological processes in the skin.
Thus, massage can help, for example, with congestion in the lymphatic and blood vessels. It will cause harm during infectious processes, since increased blood flow will lead to the spread of microbes and the original focus ( for example, in the form of a boil) throughout the body. That is why, before booking a massage session for the cervical-collar area and scalp, you need to understand what exactly is the cause of pain in the back of the head. From a physiological point of view, all reasons can be divided into three large groups regarding the expected effect of massage.
Effects of massage for pain in the back of the head against the background of various pathologies of the back of the head;
migraine;
hypertensive crisis;
tumors of the skull bones;
crack or fracture of the occipital bone;
damage to the soft tissues of the head.

Thus, massage can be regarded as a means of treating pain in the back of the head only in certain pathologies. For problems with the cervical spine, it helps reduce inflammation of the nerve roots by spreading the intervertebral spaces. A fairly deep massage is required. It should only be performed by a highly qualified massage therapist, chiropractor or vertebrologist, as there is a risk of even more pinched nerves and increased pain.

For neck muscle spasms, several sessions of relaxing massage of the cervical-collar area can improve blood circulation, normalize metabolism and relax muscles. In this case, the pain will weaken and eventually go away completely. Normalizing blood circulation can also be beneficial for pain caused by stagnation of blood and lymph.

What folk remedies are there if the back of the head hurts?

Pain in the back of the head can have many different causes, so self-treatment of this symptom with the help of folk remedies most often turns out to be ineffective. Most medicinal plants that form the basis of such treatment can selectively act on blood vessels, the nervous system or inflammatory processes. However, based on the nature of the pain alone, it is impossible to say what exactly the cause is. To do this, you need to visit a specialist and conduct various studies ( tests, instrumental examination, etc.).

However, folk remedies can sometimes help. This applies, first of all, to those patients who already know their diagnosis. They experience pain in the back of the head periodically, and their cause is known. In this case, choosing a suitable remedy is quite possible.

The following traditional medicine recipes may be effective against pain in the back of the head:

Potato juice. Consumed freshly prepared ( no later than 15 – 20 minutes). The potatoes are peeled, washed thoroughly, and then the juice is squeezed out using gauze or a juicer. Drink it three times a day, half an hour before meals. You should drink 50–100 ml at a time. If after 3 to 5 days the pain does not go away, then this remedy is considered ineffective. As a rule, potato juice can help with pain in the back of the head due to hypertension ( moderate increase in blood pressure).
St. John's wort decoction. 1 tablespoon of dry herb is poured with 250 - 300 ml of boiling water and continue to cook over low heat for another 8 - 10 minutes. Then the resulting broth is decanted and allowed to brew for some time. It is taken half a glass 3 times a day.
Elderberry infusion. For 1 tablespoon of Siberian elderberry flowers, 200 ml of boiling water is required. It is infused for at least 20 minutes, after which the liquid is expressed. The infusion is drunk cooled to room temperature four times a day, 50 ml.
Infusion of coltsfoot. 1 tablespoon of dry leaves of this herb is poured into a glass of boiling water. The infusion lasts for at least half an hour. Drink the infusion 3–5 times a day, 1 tablespoon. The infusion can help with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
Viburnum bark infusion. 2 tablespoons of bark are poured into 500 ml of warm water and heated in a water bath for half an hour. After this, turn off the fire and let the bark brew for another 20 minutes. Decant the broth and drink 1 tablespoon three times a day. The drug normalizes the tone of blood vessels in the brain and can help with pain in the back of the head of a migraine nature.
Infusion of the rhizome of European hoofedfoot. For 1 teaspoon of dry rhizome you need 2 cups of boiling water. Infusion lasts 3–4 hours, during which the water is stirred periodically. Drink 1 tablespoon of the decoction twice a day for migraines. The drug is contraindicated in pregnant women and patients with chronic hypertension.

In general, it should be noted that the likelihood of folk remedies being effective is relatively low. With severe or prolonged pain in the back of the head, we are most likely talking about serious pathologies. For example, a severe migraine attack is unlikely to subside when taking medicinal herbs, and for meningitis, not a single folk remedy can cope with the inflammatory process. That is why patients are strongly advised to seek qualified medical help. This will help eliminate the most dangerous pathologies and facilitate the earliest possible start of a full course of treatment.

The occipital bone is considered the most massive in the skull, fixes the anatomical structures in the occipital region, and protects the posterior parts of the brain from damage.

There are many reasons for pain in the back of the head. This may be a consequence of nervous strain, fatigue from excessive physical or mental stress, after a long stay in an uncomfortable position or intense training. Pain in the back of the head due to deformation of osteophytes in the cervical spine, the appearance of growths on the bones due to salt deposition or degeneration of ligaments. The pain intensifies in the back of the head when turning the head, radiates to the neck, jaw, back of the head, eyes and ears when the neck muscles tighten as a result of poor posture and severe nervous tension.

Neuralgia of the occipital nerve. With the development of pathology in the cervical spine: osteochondrosis or spondyloarthrosis, pain in the back of the head, dizziness, and a feeling of stiffness and tightness in the shoulders. With trigeminal neuralgia, the pain spreads to the lower jaw and ears, increases when turning the head, coughing, sneezing, pulsates at one point of the head, radiates to the back, jaw, temples, and pain in the back of the head.
Colds, hypothermia. Shooting pain appears when turning the head, sneezing, coughing.
Arterial hypertension, in which it compresses, stiffens the muscles, jaw and hurts in the back of the head.
Cervical migraine, acute pain in the morning in the occipital and temporal parts, darkness in the eyes, noise in the ears, hearing impairment, dizziness. Migraine can be a genetic pathology and remain dormant for a long time, becoming activated only against the background of provoking factors. It begins to progress rapidly, manifesting itself in attacks, surges in blood pressure after taking hormonal drugs in large doses, sudden changes in weather, radiating to the bones of the neck, jaw, back, overexertion after intense training or mental activity, and excessive alcohol intake.
Vertebrobasilar syndrome appears with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, when there is noise in the ears, pain in the back of the head, and a veil covers the eyes. It seems, especially after intense training or taking large doses of alcohol, that everything around you is spinning, spinning, and doubles.

Many people experience constant pain in the back of their head. Many factors can provoke occipital pain, which is often painful, long-lasting, radiating to the jaw, and cannot be relieved even with pills. The pathology can be congenital, acquired or kinetic, when intracranial pressure jumps, which is often observed in women after 40 years.

Pain in the back of the head as a result of:

hypertensive crisis;
chronic stress;
excessive muscle strain or staying toned for a long time;
malocclusion;
deformation of the temporomandibular joints, resulting in nausea, dizziness, impaired hearing and coordination of movements. Even analgesics do not help; there is a shooting pain that radiates to the bone in the neck and jaw;
strains of the neck muscles after intense training, also in case of hypothermia, bruise, injury due to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the sore spot;
post-traumatic intracranial pressure, concussion of the cerebellum, an acute, shooting pain appears in one point, localized to the jaw and occipital part, but the pain is well relieved by anesthetic tablets.
smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol;
constant stress;
a sedentary lifestyle, staying in an uncomfortable position or prolonged exercise, which often happens while sleeping.

Unfortunately, painkillers do not always help with pain in the back of the head. Serious systemic physiological changes occur in the body, requiring identification of the main cause that provoked the pain in the back of the head, comprehensive diagnostics, and blood tests (general and biochemistry). Perhaps a malignant tumor has appeared in one of the brain structures, or the body is experiencing a pre-stroke state.

Pain in one point of the head is migrating, usually occurring suddenly and lasting no more than 1-3 seconds. Point pain is rare and, as a rule, does not pose a threat to human health. It hurts in the back of the head, has an exact location, you can point with one finger where it hurts: in the temporal part or on the back of the head. Pain is more common in women over 40 years of age who suffer from migraines and paroxysmal headaches in one point. As a rule, special treatment for such pain is not required; it is enough to take painkillers: indomethacin, melatonin, nurofen, sedalgin, solpadeine.

With a migraine in the temporal part, the patient perceives pain as if at one point, which pulsates and swells. Before attacks there is:

lacrimation;
redness of the eyes;
sagging lower eyelid;
constriction of the pupil of the eye on the painful side;
swelling of the nasal mucosa;
difficulty breathing;
copious discharge from the nasal cavity.

During attacks of pain in one part of the bone at the back of the head, intramuscular administration of triptan drugs is indicated. For prevention purposes, glucocorticoids are prescribed. In severe cases, radiofrequency ablation of the trigeminal ganglion is performed to stimulate the occipital nerve in one of the posterior parts of the hypothalamus in the neck.

Pain in the neck and back of the head can be different and the causes are also different. Patients often complain that pain lasts a long time and cannot be treated with painkillers; however, any pain is a symptom and is dangerous, regardless of the cause of its occurrence.

There may be a pinched nerve or nerve endings in the cervical spine, compression or displacement of the vertebrae. Pain in the back of the head and the right side of the head in the morning with arterial hypertension, compresses the temples and the head area, hearing and vision decrease. Antispasmodics usually help with cerebral vascular spasms. However, not all types of pain can be relieved even with the most powerful painkillers. Pain in the back of the head from overexertion, stress, poor diet, smoking, alcohol abuse, and pills do not always help. If the unpleasant symptoms are not caused by a disease, then the best medicines are: relaxing acupressure, proper rest, normalization of nutrition, maintaining posture, placing a special cushion under the neck when working sedentarily for a long time, for example, at the computer. This applies to office workers who often suffer from cervical migraines. You need to move more, sit less in one position for a long time, and after work do a neck massage in the back of the head.

For chronic pain, a head massage helps relieve attacks of headaches in the back of the head. For cervical osteochondrosis, some folk remedies and homeopathic preparations are effective.

You need the help of specialists if you experience pain in the back of your head. Self-medication is not recommended. Some folk remedies, warming ointments and gels can relieve unpleasant symptoms and alleviate the condition for a while, for example, after an intense and long workout, but this is not a way out. If the cause of pain is a disease, then it requires establishing the true root cause of the disease, undergoing a comprehensive examination, CT, MRI, and Doppler sonography of the brain. The only exception when the help of doctors is not really required is the appearance of pain in the back of the head against the background of emotional or mental stress. It is advised to calm down, massage the neck area, carry out a relaxation procedure, and then take a contrast shower. You may be advised by your doctor to temporarily wear a neck bracing device to relieve stress and tension from the muscles at the back of your head.

It is necessary to ventilate the room more often, if there is constant pain, apply warm compresses from infusions of medicinal herbs to the back of the head, drink more hot tea, stay in the fresh air, avoid alcohol and smoking, dose sports activities, try to constantly keep the neck as relaxed as possible, and do not overstrain the bone the back of the head and neck muscles, place an orthopedic cushion under the head and jaw during sedentary work.

Treatment of many diseases, if the pain in the back of the head does not go away for a long time, requires a serious and professional approach. The complex of necessary measures includes many processes and actions. For this reason, actions aimed at preventing the occurrence of illnesses are fundamental in the life processes of any person.

Sometimes, when talking about pain in the back of the head, patients say that their occipital protuberances hurt and draw the doctor’s attention to this. What can this condition mean, and which doctor should you contact if your occipital protuberances hurt? Most often, complex causes are involved: otogenic, vascular, associated with meningeal symptoms.

A little anatomy

In order to know why the occipital protuberances hurt, you need to remember their anatomical structure. The occipital protuberances themselves are usually simply convexities of the lateral surfaces of the unpaired occipital bone; below and on the sides they are delimited by the mastoid processes of the temporal bones.

Occipital bone internal view

It is these processes that are responsible for the development of many types of pain in the back of the head, especially if the occipital protuberance hurts on one side. This most often indicates inflammation, which is caused by a “problem” in the temporal bone.

Sometimes the pain occurs higher, in the very back of the head, which has an aching character. It is then that patients, in order to show the nature of diffuse and aching pain, simply put their hand on the back of their head. Thus, the pain is diffuse, and this is typical, for example, for tension headaches, and if patients show the place of pain with one finger, then this most often indicates otogenic causes.

Occiptalgia of otogenic origin

This tricky term is simply translated, namely: pain in the back of the head, which developed as a result of a sore ear. As a rule, the patient knows that he has chronic otitis media, which has a habit of worsening in cold, damp, and windy weather. Therefore, if the occipital protuberances hurt due to the weather, this is one of the signs of chronic otitis media, as well as mastoiditis.

The thing is that in the mastoid process, both on the right and on the left, there are cavities filled with air, which can “belatedly” respond to changes in atmospheric pressure. Irradiation from these zones of chronic inflammation may radiate posteriorly, and in this case, the subcutaneous nerve trunks may be involved in this process.

The mastoid process is highlighted in the photo.

Thus, pain may occur in the occipital protuberances, which intensify when pressed. This can be a means of differential diagnosis, distinguishing painful sensations arising from the ENT organs from neuralgia. What are the signs of neuralgia?

Neurological pain

Most often, with neuralgia of the occipital nerves, and above all, the lesser occipital nerve, asymmetric pain occurs, but it is not associated with the mastoid processes, but rather is associated with the neck. If the patient has muscle tightness and rigidity in the upper cervical spine due to osteochondrosis, then there is a high chance of neuralgia occurring.

Vascular occiptalgia

In addition to neuralgia, the source of pain impulses, for example, when the occipital protuberances of one or both sides hurt, are blood vessels. And not venous, but arterial, which can change their lumen. These vessels have the property of sharply undergoing spasm, which is relatively asymptomatic and painless, and then expand compensatoryly, more than it should. This is an expansion and can cause pain, usually in one side of the head. This attack is characteristic of migraine, or hemicrania.

True, in this case, most often there is a one-sided localization, but there is a situation where attacks of occipital migraine occur, which can be symmetrical in nature.

If the occipital protuberances hurt, and this pain is of vascular origin, then what should you do? In this case, drugs that help narrow the blood vessels again usually help. Such drugs include, for example, caffeine sodium benzoate, Coficil, Askofen, Caffetamine, Caffetin, Citramon, that is, all drugs that contain caffeine.

Finally, the occipital protuberances hurt and during an attack of high blood pressure, this may be a symptom of a crisis. Often, a hypertensive crisis begins with pain in the back of the head. If the occipital protuberances hurt, especially at the end of the working day, then this may be a signal to measure your blood pressure level.

What if intracranial pressure rises?

This reason can also be quite significant. But if hypertensive-hydrocephalic syndrome is the cause of pain, then this pain soon spreads throughout the head. After all, an increase in cerebrospinal fluid pressure causes the receptors of the meninges to react, and as a result we get a diffuse headache, the characteristic companions of which are usually photophobia, or photophobia, intolerance to loud sounds and, in general, all irritants.

In conclusion, we can list several more reasons. Thus, headache and heaviness in the back of the head are characteristic of tension headaches, of infectious intoxication syndrome if the pathogen has a pronounced neurotropic effect, for example, with influenza. And sometimes patients who have a sedentary job may simply tell doctors, for example, that their “occipital protuberances are swollen and painful.” As a rule, this secondary symptom occurs against the background of exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis. But if you complete a course of massage, go swimming, and undergo several sessions of physiotherapy, then this pain recedes.

Diagnosis and treatment

For such pain, only a qualified specialist can prescribe the correct treatment. If these pains are caused by neuralgia, then self-medication is contraindicated. In this case, the following diagnostic methods are prescribed:

computed and magnetic resonance imaging;

radiography.

Depending on the causes of the disease, the doctor determines what to do if the occipital protuberances hurt, then there may be a nerve block method, drug treatment, antidepressants, massage and other popular methods of treating the affected areas of the nerve and surrounding soft and bone tissues.

Every person is familiar with headaches and knows first-hand what it is. Absolutely anyone can confirm how excruciating the state of constant tormenting pain is. What could a spasm indicate, and why does it appear? With problems headaches can be encountered episodically, or you can live for years. Today there are a large number of medications for this disease. You can take a pill and forget about what was bothering you 15 minutes ago.

It is necessary to respond to any signal from the body, and do it competently . This symptom may indicate about the course of various human diseases, which he may not even be aware of.

If the headaches are sporadic, then this may be a consequence of overwork, fatigue, stress, stagnation in an uncomfortable position, sleep disturbances, etc. As soon as the source of pain is eliminated, it will stop. In this case, there is no reason to worry and visit a specialist. It’s another matter if the symptoms are constant and long-lasting.

The cause of any persistent headache is pathology of the vascular systems, neuralgia or spine. This requires a visit to a specialist and further treatment.

Occipital protuberances

The occipital protuberances are convexities on the occipital bone and delimited by the mastoid processes of the temporal bones. That is why, when the processes of the temporal bones become inflamed, a spasm occurs in the occipital protuberances. Sometimes the pain is aching and then it is located in the upper part, and sometimes it is distributed throughout the back of the head. If a spasm overcomes a person locally, then this indicates otogenic causes.

When the patient has chronic otitis media, then it worsens in cold and frozen weather. Therefore, if his occipital protuberances are sore, then this is a sign of his aggravated disease or the appearance of mastoiditis. This happens as a result of a difference in atmospheric pressure, to which the mastoid process reacts. When you press on the bumps, the pain intensifies.

Headaches due to illness

Let's take a look below most common diseases, in which pain occurs in the head and back of the head:

Diagnosis and treatment

Before starting treatment headache in the back of the head, you need to consult a doctor and undergo an examination to determine the causes of the disease. Self-medication for neuralgic diseases is extremely dangerous to health, and it is simply impossible to identify the cause on your own. When contacting a specialist, he will prescribe the following research methods:

computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the head;
radiography.

If the disease is in the occipital protuberances, then the doctor may recommend a nerve block, drug treatment, antidepressants, massage and much more. Let's consider several events to eliminate or relieve spasms occipital protuberances and occipital part.

The back of my head hurts. Causes of pain in the back of the head

Anatomical features of the occipital bone

Occipital protuberance in an adult

Injury

A bite of an insect

Atheroma

Hemangioma

Lipoma

Osteoma

Diagnosis and treatment

What structures are in the back of the head?

Nape skin

Subcutaneous tissue

Muscular aponeurotic layer

Layer of loose fiber

Periosteum

Occipital bone

Meninges

Brain

Vessels of the occipital region

Nerves of the occipital region

Neck muscles

Upper spine

Causes of pain in the back of the head

Diseases of the anatomical structures of the occipital region

Neurogenic pain

Vascular pain

External reasons

Injuries

Local diseases

Bone diseases

Infectious diseases

Psychogenic pain in the back of the head

Diseases of internal organs

Diagnosis of the cause of pain in the back of the head

History taking

Physical examination

General blood analysis

Blood chemistry

Serological blood test

Lumbar puncture

Radiography

CT scan

Magnetic resonance imaging

Doppler examination

Electroencephalography

How to get rid of pain in the back of the head?

Hypertensive crisis

Crack or fracture of the occipital bone

Meningitis

Migraine

Increased intracranial pressure

Concussion

Heatstroke or sunstroke

Furuncle

Features of pain in the back of the head

Why does the back of my head and eyes hurt?

Why does the back of my head and neck hurt?

Why does the back of my head hurt and why do I have a fever?

Why does the back of my head hurt and there is a feeling of pressure in my head?

Why does the back of my head and temples hurt?

Can the back of your head hurt during pregnancy?

What to do if the lymph nodes in the back of the head hurt?

Why does the back of my head hurt when pressed?

Why does the back of my head hurt when I exercise?

What to drink if the back of your head hurts?

Does massage help when the back of your head hurts?

What folk remedies are there if the back of the head hurts?

A little anatomy

Occiptalgia of otogenic origin

Neurological pain

Vascular occiptalgia

What if intracranial pressure rises?

Diagnosis and treatment

Occipital protuberances

Headaches due to illness

Diagnosis and treatment