What causes headaches at the back of the head?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling out of sorts, experiencing dizziness and severe pain at the back of my head. I would like to ask, what could be causing headaches at the back of the head?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Headaches at the back of the head are a common symptom, and the following are some common explanations:
1. Intracranial lesions: The area at the back of the head is close to the cerebellum, brainstem, and blood vessels. Lesions in these regions, such as tumors, ruptured aneurysms, or cerebral infarction, can cause pain in the back of the head. Pain caused by medullary infarction is often particularly noticeable.
2. Cervical spine problems: Diseases of the cervical spine or neck muscles, such as cervical spondylosis, cervical disc herniation, or muscle strain, may also lead to pain at the back of the head. Compression or inflammation of nerves in the neck can radiate pain to the back of the head.
3. Hypertension: Patients with hypertension may experience pain at the back of the head during significant blood pressure fluctuations, often accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and nausea.
4. Psychological and sleep-related factors: Prolonged mental stress, anxiety, depression, or insufficient sleep may lead to neurasthenia or autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can subsequently cause pain at the back of the head.
5. Trauma: Pain in the back of the head can also be caused by injuries such as impacts or falls.
If you frequently experience headaches at the back of the head or if the headaches are accompanied by other severe symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly.
