Pain at the top of the back of the head

Jun 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
In general, pain at the upper back of the head may be caused by factors such as cold exposure, cervical spondylosis, or rupture of blood vessels beneath the scalp. It is important to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and to relieve discomfort through general treatments or medication. Additionally, conditions such as migraines, hypertension, and cerebral infarction can also cause similar symptoms. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Generally, pain at the upper back of the head may be caused by factors such as catching a chill, rupture of blood vessels beneath the scalp, or cervical spondylosis. It is important to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and to relieve discomfort through general measures or medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Catching a chill

If a patient fails to keep warm and is exposed to cold air, it may lead to transient nerve pain, causing a sensation of pain at the back of the head. This type of pain is usually short-lived and can be relieved with adequate rest.

2. Rupture of blood vessels beneath the scalp

If the back of the head suffers trauma, it may easily cause rupture and bleeding of blood vessels beneath the scalp, possibly accompanied by local skin damage, resulting in pain at the upper part of the occipital region. Applying an ice pack locally can help constrict capillaries, reduce subcutaneous bleeding, and alleviate symptoms.

3. Cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is usually caused by prolonged periods of looking down at computers or mobile phones, or poor sitting posture. The condition can cause neck pain; if severe, it may compress local nerves, leading to episodic pain at the upper back of the head. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Jingfukang Granules, Jingkang Capsules, or Nimodipine Tablets may be taken for treatment.

In addition, conditions such as migraines, hypertension, and cerebral infarction may also cause the above symptoms. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.