Intermittent Surface Headache from Left Crown to Occiput: Causes and Solutions - Neurology

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Intermittent headaches that radiate from the left crown to the occiput can be quite distressing and may stem from various underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems that your symptoms began after a bout of coughing associated with a cold, which may have led to neck strain or tension. This is not uncommon, as the muscles in the neck can become tense or strained due to coughing, especially if the cough is forceful or prolonged.

Possible Causes
1. Muscle Strain: The most likely cause of your symptoms is muscle strain in the neck. When you cough, the muscles in your neck and upper back can become tense, leading to discomfort that may radiate to the head. This can result in tension headaches, which are often described as a tight band around the head or localized pain in specific areas.

2. Cervical Spine Issues: If the pain persists, it could be related to cervical spine issues, such as a herniated disc or degenerative changes in the cervical vertebrae. These conditions can irritate the nerves that exit the spine, leading to referred pain in the head.

3. Nerve Irritation: The sensation of superficial nerve pain you described could indicate irritation of the occipital nerves, which can occur due to muscle tension or cervical spine issues. This condition is known as occipital neuralgia, characterized by sharp, shooting pain in the back of the head and neck.

4. Sinus Issues: Given that your symptoms began after a cold, it is also worth considering sinusitis, which can cause referred pain to the head and neck. If you experience nasal congestion or facial pressure, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Postural Factors: Poor posture, especially during recovery from illness when you may be resting more, can exacerbate neck and head pain.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist or an orthopedic specialist focusing on the cervical spine would be appropriate. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any underlying structural issues.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen neck muscles, improve posture, and alleviate tension. They may also use modalities such as heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it’s essential to use these medications as directed and consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions.

4. Massage and Stretching: As you mentioned that massage provided some relief, continuing with gentle massage and stretching exercises for the neck and upper back can help alleviate muscle tension. Focus on stretching the neck muscles and practicing good posture.

5. Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the neck can help relax tense muscles and improve blood flow, which may alleviate discomfort.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or patterns. If the pain worsens or if you develop new symptoms (such as numbness, weakness, or severe headaches), seek medical attention promptly.


Conclusion
In summary, your intermittent headache and neck discomfort likely stem from muscle strain or tension following your recent illness. While self-care measures such as massage, stretching, and heat therapy can provide relief, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan. This approach will help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed effectively, allowing you to return to your normal activities without discomfort.