Headaches are a common condition that affects many people. They can occur in different parts of the head and can be associated with many other symptoms. One of the most common types is a headache in the back of the head. These headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, e.g. tension in the neck and shoulders, migraines or certain illnesses.
In this article, we look at the causes, symptoms and treatment options for headaches at the back of the head. Whether you suffer from occasional or regular headaches, this article should provide you with valuable information to help you understand and treat your headaches.
Content
1. versatile and changeable: the different variants of headaches at the back of the head explained
2. pressure in the back of the head - this is where the pain begins
3. occipital headache - determine the cause
4. recognize symptoms and complaints at an early stage
5. headache at the back of the head - nausea and dizziness
6. stabbing headache at the back of the head - what to do?
Versatile and changeable: the different variants of headaches at the back of the head explained
Headaches can occur on one side or both sides of the head, and at different times. The specific reasons for these variations can vary depending on the type of headache and the underlying cause. We have compiled some of the most common types of headaches. Nevertheless, it is important to know that many headaches can be caused by different factors. That's why you should see your doctor for an accurate analysis.
Tension headache
Tension headaches are usually felt on both sides of the head, but can also occur on only one side. They are caused by muscle tension and, for the most part, stress. This type of headache is probably familiar to most and is also the most common type of headache. The causes are mostly stress, bad posture or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Migraine
Migraine is a form of headache that can cause severe pain as well as other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can also cause aura, a visual disturbance that can include seeing flashing lights or blind spots. Often, headaches are one-sided and can be triggered by a variety of factors. These include stress, hormonal changes and certain foods.
Cluster headache
This is a rare type of headache characterized by severe stabbing pain, often occurring in or around one eye, and occurring in cycles or clusters. Alcohol and nicotine in particular, as well as being at high altitudes, can be cited as possible causes for this.
Cervicogenic headache
This type of headache is often caused by problems in the neck area, injuries, poor posture or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis. The pain typically occurs in the back of the head and neck, but can also be unilateral.
Sinus headache
Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause headaches that occur mainly in the forehead and around the eyes, but also in the back of the head. These so-called sinus headaches are also often accompanied by a cold or flu. Dizziness can be a consequence of sinus headaches.
Pressing in the back of the head - this is where the pain starts
The back of the head, also called the occipital region, consists of various structures, including bones, muscles and nerves. The largest part is the occipital bone, which makes up the base of the skull. The occipital bone is triangular in shape and has several protrusions, including the external occipital process and the superior and inferior nuchal line, to which muscles and ligaments are attached.
The muscles that attach to the occipital bone include the occipital muscle (occipitalis), which covers the back of the head, and the trapezius muscle (trapezius), which runs from the occipital region to the shoulder. The muscles that attach to the occipital bone are responsible for the movement of the head and neck.
The back of the head also has several important nerves that supply sensation to the scalp and the skin behind the ear. The occipital artery also runs through the back of the head and supplies the scalp with blood.
The ligaments that attach to the occipital bone include the ligamentum nuchae, which runs from the occipital protuberance to the spinous process of the cervical vertebrae and supports the head.
The structure of the back of the head is complex, and it is important to know that the head and neck area is a common site for pain and tension. In some cases, a problem elsewhere in the body can transfer pain to the back of the head.
Back of the head pain - determine the cause
Headaches at the back of the head can be caused by a variety of factors, e.g. tension in the neck and shoulders, migraines or certain illnesses such as high blood pressure or anemia. Tension headaches, the most common form of headache, often cause headaches in the back of the head, temples, forehead and around the eyes. Migraine headaches can also cause pain in the back of the head, along with other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.
It is often the inconspicuous causes that can cause headaches at the back of the head. Here are some of them:
- Dehydration: Drinking too little water can lead to headaches and cause pain in the back of the head.
- Caffeine withdrawal: If you regularly consume caffeine and then stop, this can also manifest itself in the form of pressure and pain.
- Poor posture: Prolonged sitting or standing in a stooped position can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, which in turn causes headaches at the back of the head.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause headaches, primarily in the forehead and around the eyes, but also in the back of the head.
- Temporal arteritis: This is an inflammation of the blood vessels that supply the head and brain, which can lead to headaches in the temples and the back of the head.
- Injuries or trauma to the head or neck, infections or certain medications.
Recognize symptoms and complaints at an early stage
Headaches in the back of the head can cause a variety of symptoms. It is important to know that these symptoms can vary depending on the type of headache and the person. Some common signs of the condition are:
- Pain: The most obvious symptom of a headache is pain. The pain can be dull, aching or stabbing and can range from mild to severe.
- Sensitivity to pain: The scalp, neck and shoulders may feel sensitive.
- Tightness or pressure: You may feel a tight band around your head or a feeling of pressure in your head.
- Stiffness in the neck: Headaches in the back of the head can be accompanied by stiffness or pain in the neck.
- Nausea: Some people may experience nausea or even vomiting in connection with headaches.
- Sensitivity to light and sound: Some people are more sensitive to light and sound when they have a headache.
- Dizziness or confusion: Headaches in the back of the head can cause dizziness, confusion and disorientation.
Headache at the back of the head - nausea and dizziness
If you've ever suffered from a headache at the back of the head, then you probably know that nausea and dizziness in particular come on quickly as soon as the problem hits. In fact, these are one of the most common symptoms that can occur with headaches, especially back of the head headaches.
Nausea is the feeling of needing to vomit or feeling unwell. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including migraines, certain medications, and inner ear problems. In some cases, nausea can be so severe that it leads to vomiting.
Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or disorientation. Inner ear problems, low blood sugar and certain medications are also responsible for this. However, dizziness can also be caused by altered blood flow to the brain, as can occur with headaches.
Migraine as a cause of nausea and dizziness
Both nausea and dizziness can be triggered by migraines. Migraines are a type of headache that can cause severe pain as well as other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound and difficulty concentrating. Migraines can also cause an aura, a visual disturbance that can include seeing flashing lights or blind spots. It's important to note that nausea and dizziness can also be symptoms of other conditions, not just headaches at the back of the head.
Sharp headache at the back of the head - what to do?
There are several ways to treat back of the head headaches, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments you can use at home:
- Relaxation methods: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga or meditation can help to reduce strain and stress. With a good self-care day, you can relieve the tension that contributes to headaches and other complaints.
- Massage and physiotherapy: Gentle massages or stretches can help to relieve tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, which in turn can prevent headaches.
- Avoid triggers: If you already know what external circumstances trigger your headaches, try to avoid these triggers as much as possible. Not sure yet? Then keep a headache diary to identify possible triggers such as food, stress, lack of sleep or environmental factors.
- Ice or heat: Placing an ice pack or heating pad on the back of the head can help to relieve pain and tension.
- Massage: A massage therapist can work on the neck and shoulder muscles to relieve tension and improve circulation.
- Stretching: Gentle stretching of the neck and shoulder muscles can help to relieve tension and improve circulation.
Severe headache - treat the back of the head with acupressure
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine similar to acupuncture. However, instead of needles, acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body called acupuncture points. Like acupuncture, acupressure has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of health conditions, including headaches.
Research has shown that acupressure can effectively reduce the frequency, intensity and duration of headaches, including back of the head headaches. The mode of action of acupressure is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, increase the release of endorphins (natural pain-relieving substances in the body), and improve blood flow to the head and neck.
In acupressure for headaches, therapists usually focus on points on the head, neck and shoulders, as well as points on the hands and feet that are believed to correspond to the head. Some of the acupressure points that can be used to treat headaches are the base of the skull, temples, neck and shoulders.
Acupressure mat for headache in the back of the head
An acupressure mat is a tool used to apply pressure to specific points on the body called acupuncture points. These acupuncture points are located on the surface of the skin and are believed to be associated with certain internal organs and systems. When pressure is applied to these points, the body's natural healing processes can be stimulated and pain and tension can be relieved.
The Shakti Mat can be helpful for headaches in the back of the head, as it can stimulate the acupuncture points in the back, neck and shoulders. Among other things, this is said to help relieve tension and improve circulation. When used regularly, an acupressure mat can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
We will be happy to show you more tips on how to deal with the acupressure feeling.