Pain in the Back of the Head: Causes and Specialist Guidance

Q: Pain in the Back of the Head: Causes and Specialist Guidance

Hello Ms. <br>Chen： Your symptoms may need to be initially considered as inflammation of the muscle fascia at the back of the head. <br>You are concerned about the issue of thrombosis related to the AZ vaccine, which is currently referred to as VITT (Vaccine-induced immune thromb

Pain in the back of the head can have several potential causes, including tension headaches, migraines, cervicogenic headaches, or issues related to the cervical spine such as herniated discs or arthritis. Other possibilities include occipital neuralgia or even more serious conditions like a concussion or intracranial issues. It is advisable to consult a neurologist or a

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I have been experiencing pain in the right posterior part of my skull, which primarily occurs when I apply pressure; it feels similar to the pain associated with a bruise.
If I do not apply pressure, there is no significant pain or discomfort.
Which specialty should I consult for this issue, and what kind of examinations should I undergo to identify the cause? I received the AZ vaccine about a week ago; could this be related?

Ms. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/15

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Chen: Your symptoms may need to be initially considered as inflammation of the muscle fascia at the back of the head.
You are concerned about the issue of thrombosis related to the AZ vaccine, which is currently referred to as VITT (Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia).
The incidence rate in Europe is approximately 1 in 10,000.
It typically occurs within 4 to 28 days, so please be aware of any symptoms such as swelling in the lower limbs, shortness of breath, headache accompanied by blurred vision, or persistent abdominal pain lasting more than 24 hours.
The primary cause of headache in this context is cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, which is an intracranial condition.
Tenderness upon palpation may indicate muscle or subcutaneous tissue involvement.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a neurologist for further examination and follow-up.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after seeking medical care.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and safety.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/08/15

More Info

Understanding pain in the back of the head can be quite complex, as it can stem from various causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. Your description of pain that is primarily felt upon pressure, resembling a bruise, suggests that it may be related to muscle tension, nerve irritation, or even a localized issue such as a trigger point in the muscles of the neck or scalp.

Given your symptoms, the first step in addressing your concerns is to determine the appropriate medical specialty to consult. In your case, a visit to a neurologist would be advisable. Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, which includes headaches and other types of pain that may be related to nerve function. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a detailed history and physical examination, to assess your symptoms more accurately.

In addition to seeing a neurologist, you may also consider consulting with a primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist, particularly one who focuses on the cervical spine. They can evaluate for any musculoskeletal issues that may be contributing to your pain, such as cervical spondylosis or muscle strain.

As for diagnostic tests, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan if there are concerns about structural issues in the brain or spine. However, since your pain is localized and primarily felt upon pressure, it may not be necessary to jump straight to imaging. Instead, your doctor might first suggest conservative measures such as physical therapy, which can help alleviate muscle tension and improve posture, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer.

Regarding your recent vaccination with the AZ vaccine, it is important to note that while vaccines can cause temporary side effects, such as soreness at the injection site or mild flu-like symptoms, they are generally not associated with localized pain in the back of the head. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms following vaccination, such as severe headaches, visual changes, or neurological symptoms, it is crucial to report these to your healthcare provider.

In summary, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Neurologist: They can assess your symptoms and determine if further testing is necessary.

2. Consider Physical Therapy: If muscle tension is suspected, physical therapy may help relieve pain and improve function.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, especially if they worsen or new symptoms arise.

4. Discuss Vaccination Concerns: If you believe your symptoms may be related to the recent vaccination, bring this up during your consultation.

Pain in the back of the head can often be managed effectively with the right approach, so seeking professional guidance is a wise decision. Remember to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about all your symptoms and any concerns you may have.

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