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What Causes Headache And Sharp Pain In The Head?
Question: I have what I would not say is a headache but sharp pain that come and go in the back of the head on the left side every 5 minutes which are annoying yet concerning. It started 2 nights ago. I was using a cross body bag that was heavy and my neck is also a little tight. My sinuses also feel out of whack.
Brief Answer:
Nothing alarming.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
If what concerns you is the possibility of a life threatening issue like a brain lesion let me reassure you that type of pain is not indicative of anything of the sort. Brain or spinal cord lesions do not typically manifest with such short lasting pain.
Given the location and the history you provide of lifting a heavy bag, together with the neck tightness, indicates an issue with the upper neck levels. It may cause pain through two mechanisms. One is inflammation and spasms of neck muscles which may be painful and may radiate in the back of the head. The other mechanism would be that of upper spinal arthritis together with local inflammation and muscle spasms, compressing the nerves exiting the spine like the occipital nerve. Irritation or compresion of the occipital nerves causes what is called occipital neuralgia, short lasting sharp or lancinating pain in the territory covered by the nerve, typically the back of the head.
In terms of management the initial management is the same. Medication used are anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen you mention, a muscle relaxant may be added to that for a couple of weeks. Heat may be beneficial as well. A cervical collar also provides benefit in some patients.
Only when symptoms persist for several weeks is imaging done in order for other measures like local injections to be considered. Hopefully that won't be the case.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Nothing alarming.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
If what concerns you is the possibility of a life threatening issue like a brain lesion let me reassure you that type of pain is not indicative of anything of the sort. Brain or spinal cord lesions do not typically manifest with such short lasting pain.
Given the location and the history you provide of lifting a heavy bag, together with the neck tightness, indicates an issue with the upper neck levels. It may cause pain through two mechanisms. One is inflammation and spasms of neck muscles which may be painful and may radiate in the back of the head. The other mechanism would be that of upper spinal arthritis together with local inflammation and muscle spasms, compressing the nerves exiting the spine like the occipital nerve. Irritation or compresion of the occipital nerves causes what is called occipital neuralgia, short lasting sharp or lancinating pain in the territory covered by the nerve, typically the back of the head.
In terms of management the initial management is the same. Medication used are anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen you mention, a muscle relaxant may be added to that for a couple of weeks. Heat may be beneficial as well. A cervical collar also provides benefit in some patients.
Only when symptoms persist for several weeks is imaging done in order for other measures like local injections to be considered. Hopefully that won't be the case.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank You! I did see my primary last night and he said the same thing. Last night I slept with a cervical pillow and as of now no pain. I did also have a sinus infection which he is treating me for but overall feeling better today. I always think the worst. Thanks again! XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
You're welcome.
Detailed Answer:
Good to know you're already feeling better.
You're welcome.
Detailed Answer:
Good to know you're already feeling better.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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