What causes pain in the back left side of the head?
Jun 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, pain in the left back of the head may be caused by poor posture, excessive fatigue, migraines, occipital neuralgia, hypertension, or other reasons. Symptomatic treatment such as general management and medication may be required. It is recommended to engage in moderate daily exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling, to promote blood circulation and help improve physical fitness.
In general, pain in the left back of the head may be caused by poor posture, overexertion, migraines, occipital neuralgia, hypertension, or other factors. Symptomatic treatment through general therapy and medication may be necessary. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Poor Posture
Maintaining poor posture for prolonged periods, such as looking down at a mobile phone or working at a desk, may lead to neck muscle tension or strain, which can cause pain in the left back of the head. Symptoms may include neck stiffness and shoulder pain. It is recommended to improve sitting and standing posture, avoid prolonged periods of looking down or working at a desk, and perform appropriate neck stretching exercises to relieve muscle tension.
2. Overexertion
Prolonged mental stress or physical labor may prevent the head from receiving sufficient rest and relaxation, affecting blood supply to the head and potentially causing pain in the left back of the head. Symptoms may include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and weakness. It is recommended to ensure adequate rest and sleep, avoid excessive fatigue, and manage work and rest periods appropriately.
3. Migraine
Migraine is a common neurological disorder that may be related to abnormal activity of neurons and blood vessels in the brain. During a migraine attack, blood vessels in the brain dilate and stimulate surrounding nerves, causing severe headaches. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound. It is recommended to follow medical advice and take medications such as ibuprofen tablets, indomethacin tablets, or nimodipine tablets to alleviate symptoms.
4. Occipital Neuralgia
Occipital neuralgia is a common type of nerve-related pain, which may be caused by factors such as excessive fatigue or long-term poor sleeping posture. Patients often experience a tight sensation in the scalp and pain in the left back of the head, accompanied by neck discomfort. It is recommended to take medications such as carbamazepine tablets, gabapentin tablets, or phenytoin sodium tablets under medical supervision.
5. Hypertension
Hypertension is primarily caused by genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and other diseases. Hypertension increases pressure on blood vessel walls, damaging cerebral blood vessels and affecting cerebral blood supply and nerve conduction, which may cause pain. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, and palpitations. It is recommended to take antihypertensive medications such as nifedipine sustained-release tablets, hydrochlorothiazide tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets under medical guidance.
It is also recommended to engage in moderate daily exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling, to promote blood circulation and enhance overall physical health.
