Chronic Pain in the Back of the Head: Causes and Solutions - Neurology

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Chronic pain in the back of the head can be a complex issue, often stemming from a variety of causes. Your symptoms, including pain between the eyebrows and at the back of the head, along with the sensation of high eye pressure, suggest a multifactorial problem that may involve tension headaches, muscle strain, or even underlying medical conditions.


Potential Causes
1. Tension Headaches: These are the most common type of headaches and are often triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. Given your description of pain that worsens throughout the day, it’s possible that prolonged periods of sitting or working at a computer may contribute to muscle tightness and tension headaches.

2. Cervicogenic Headaches: These headaches originate from issues in the cervical spine (neck). If you experience neck pain along with your headaches, this could be a contributing factor. Poor posture, especially while working at a desk, can lead to muscle strain and discomfort that radiates to the head.

3. Eye Strain: Spending long hours in front of a computer can lead to eye strain, which may contribute to headaches. Symptoms of eye strain include discomfort around the eyes, headaches, and difficulty focusing. Since you mentioned that your symptoms improve with yoga, it suggests that relaxation and stretching may help alleviate tension in your neck and shoulders, which can also reduce headaches.

4. Anemia: You mentioned having anemia, particularly of the Mediterranean type, which can lead to fatigue and may exacerbate headache symptoms. Anemia can reduce oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially leading to headaches and other symptoms. It’s important to manage anemia effectively, as it can have systemic effects on your health.

5. High Eye Pressure: Although you have had normal eye pressure readings, persistent symptoms of pressure in the eyes should not be ignored. If your eye doctor has recommended further brain imaging, it may be prudent to follow up on that advice to rule out any serious underlying conditions.


Recommendations
1. Consult a Neurologist: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult a neurologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) to rule out any serious conditions.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen your neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and reduce tension. They may also provide guidance on ergonomics to optimize your workspace.

3. Regular Exercise: You mentioned that yoga helps alleviate your symptoms. Regular physical activity can improve overall muscle tone, reduce stress, and enhance circulation, which may help mitigate headache frequency and intensity.

4. Stress Management Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress, which is a common trigger for tension headaches.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a headache diary to track when your headaches occur, their intensity, duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and treating your condition.

6. Nutritional Considerations: Since you have a family history of Mediterranean anemia, ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in iron and other essential nutrients. Discuss with your healthcare provider about possible supplements if necessary.

In conclusion, chronic pain in the back of the head can arise from various factors, including tension headaches, muscle strain, and underlying health issues like anemia. A comprehensive approach involving medical evaluation, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage and alleviate your symptoms effectively.