Electric Shock Sensations in the Back of the Head

Head electrocuted?

In the past two months, I have occasionally experienced a sensation in the back of my head that feels like an electric shock, which startles me, but it is not painful.
I only feel a bit dizzy afterward, and when I wake up the next day, it feels better.
I have searched online extensively but couldn't find similar issues.
Generally, I don't seem to have any major problems, and I don't have epilepsy or blurred vision.
I have looked through many articles, but none match my situation...
I am unsure what is going on...
However, I have been undergoing treatment for ear fullness, which has symptoms similar to vertigo, and I have been taking medications for dizziness, blood circulation, and B vitamins.
I wonder if this is related to my vertigo symptoms?

Miss Liu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/16

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Liu,
The primary causes of vertigo are issues within the balance sensory system, such as otoliths in the inner ear or vestibular neuritis.
The sensation you mentioned of feeling like an electric shock in the head is not closely related.
This symptom may be due to peripheral nerve compression.
In a minority of patients, cervical spine degeneration can lead to abnormalities in proprioception and vertebral artery blood flow, a type of vertigo known as cervicogenic vertigo.
I recommend consulting a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to preventive health measures before and after your medical visit.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2021/09/16

More Info

Experiencing electric shock sensations in the back of the head can be concerning, especially when accompanied by feelings of dizziness. Based on the information provided, it seems that you have been experiencing these sensations intermittently over the past couple of months, without any accompanying pain or significant visual disturbances. This is an important detail, as it helps narrow down potential causes.

The sensation you describe, often likened to an electric shock, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that it may be related to nerve irritation or compression. The cervical spine (neck region) houses numerous nerves that can become irritated due to various reasons, such as muscle tension, poor posture, or degenerative changes in the spine. This irritation can manifest as unusual sensations, including the electric shock feeling you described.

Another potential cause could be related to the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Since you mentioned ongoing treatment for ear-related issues and symptoms resembling dizziness, it is plausible that there is a connection. Conditions such as vestibular neuritis or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) can lead to dizziness and may also cause atypical sensations in the head or neck area. However, the electric shock sensation specifically may not be directly linked to these conditions.

It is also worth considering the possibility of anxiety or stress contributing to your symptoms. Anxiety can manifest physically in various ways, including sensations that feel unusual or alarming. If you find that these sensations occur during stressful moments or are accompanied by feelings of anxiety, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and the fact that they have persisted for a couple of months, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist. A thorough neurological examination can help rule out any serious underlying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or other neurological disorders, which can sometimes present with similar symptoms. Diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, may also be recommended to assess the brain and cervical spine for any abnormalities.

In summary, while the electric shock sensations in the back of your head may not be directly linked to your ear-related treatments, they warrant further investigation. It is essential to approach this with a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist who can provide a tailored diagnosis and treatment plan. In the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring good posture may help alleviate some symptoms. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking professional advice is the best course of action.

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