Neck Discomfort and Head Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice - Family Medicine

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Discomfort at the junction of the neck and the back of the head?


Since Monday, I've been waking up with tightness in the middle of the back of my neck, where it connects to the base of my skull.
It feels like there's a tight band there, and I've been experiencing some mild headaches.
I have to massage and tap my neck to feel comfortable.
I visited my family physician, who advised me to exercise more.
It's now Friday, and I've been running every day from Monday to Thursday, staying hydrated with about 2000 ml of water daily.
The tightness at the base of my skull is gone, and my headaches have also subsided.
However, when I shake my head (like flipping my hair), I still feel some discomfort inside my head.
This has been ongoing for five days.
Could it be that my blood is too thick? Why do I only feel relief from neck massages or taking hot showers? At home, I try to relax and avoid prolonged exposure to air conditioning.
I've been running in the afternoons, and since the headaches started on Monday, I've been going to bed at 11 PM and waking up at 8 AM.
What should I do? It's been four to five days now.
Do I need to get a blood test, or should I see a neurologist?

A-Ling, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/13

Dr. Lai Hexian reply Family Medicine


Hello, please visit the neurology department for an evaluation by a specialist.

Reply Date: 2010/08/13

More Info


Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing discomfort in your neck and head, which has persisted for several days. You mentioned that you feel a tightness in the area where your neck connects to your skull, and that you have been experiencing some head pain. Although you have engaged in physical activity and maintained hydration, you still feel discomfort, particularly when shaking your head.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that neck and head pain can arise from various causes, including muscle strain, tension headaches, or even more serious conditions such as cervical spine issues or neurological disorders. Given that you have already consulted with a family physician, who advised you to exercise more, it is a positive step that you are taking care of your physical health. However, since your symptoms have not fully resolved and you are still experiencing discomfort, it may be time to seek further medical evaluation.

Here are some considerations regarding your symptoms:
1. Muscle Tension and Strain: The tightness you feel in your neck could be due to muscle tension, which is common in individuals who may have poor posture, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer or engaging in activities that strain the neck. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back can help alleviate this tension. However, if the discomfort persists despite these measures, further evaluation may be warranted.

2. Cervical Spine Issues: Conditions such as cervical spondylosis or herniated discs can lead to neck pain and may also cause referred pain to the head. If you experience symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

3. Neurological Evaluation: Since you mentioned that you feel discomfort when shaking your head, it may be beneficial to consult a neurologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any underlying neurological conditions.

4. Blood Tests: While it is less likely that your symptoms are due to "thick blood," if there are concerns about your overall health or if you have risk factors for blood disorders, your physician may recommend blood tests to assess your blood viscosity and other parameters.

5. Self-Care Strategies: In addition to seeking medical advice, continue practicing self-care strategies. Applying heat to the neck, practicing relaxation techniques, and ensuring you maintain good posture can be beneficial. If you find that certain movements exacerbate your discomfort, it may be wise to avoid those until you have a clearer understanding of the underlying cause.

In summary, while it is encouraging that your symptoms have improved somewhat with exercise and hydration, the persistence of discomfort warrants further investigation. It is advisable to consult a neurologist or a specialist in musculoskeletal disorders for a comprehensive evaluation. They can provide a more targeted diagnosis and treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and medical history. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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