Pain in Back of Head: Conditions and Treatment

What Causes Pain in the Back of the Head?

Back head pain can come from common issues like tension, poor posture, or occipital neuralgia, but persistent or severe headaches might signal more serious conditions. Recognizing these causes helps you decide when to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis.

Below are the most common back head pain reasons:

Tension-type Headache

Tension headaches are the most common cause of back-of-head pain and can sometimes affect the forehead as well. They may last from 30 minutes to several days.

Causes include:

• Stress and anxiety
• Fatigue
• Lack of sleep
• Skipping meals
• Dehydration

Common symptoms:

• Tightening sensation around the head
• Mild to moderate pain that may become severe
• Sometimes nausea or vomiting

Migraine

Migraines are recurring headaches that may worsen with age and are more common in women. They may present as a one-sided headache, with pain beginning at the back of the head or the temples.

Triggers

• Emotional or physical stress
• Certain foods or lifestyle changes

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain, often on one side (common one-sided headache reason)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Visual disturbances
• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell

Arthritis

Arthritis-related headaches are caused by inflammation in the neck joints. Pain usually worsens with movement.

Symptoms

• Pain and stiffness
• Swelling and redness
• Limited neck movement

Poor Posture

Slouching strains the neck, jaw, and back of the head. It may irritate nerves, causing pain in the back of the head and tension headaches. Correct posture can significantly reduce symptoms.

Helpful remedies

• Maintain good posture
• Try over-the-counter medication (if advised)
• Consider physical therapy

Low-Pressure Headache

Also known as spontaneous intracranial hypotension, this happens when spinal fluid leaks, reducing the cushioning around the brain. It causes a severe headache, especially when standing or sitting. Symptoms often improve after lying down.

Cervicogenic Headache

Although it feels like a headache, the pain originates from the neck. This is called referred pain, meaning the discomfort is felt in a different area from its source.

Conditions That May Causes Pain in the Back of the Head

• Occipital Neuralgia (a nerve condition causing sharp, electric-shock-like pain)
• TMJ disorders
• Herniated cervical disc
• Hypertension headache
• Brain tumors
• Chiari malformation
• Vertebral artery dissection
• Meningitis
• Sleep apnea
• Giant cell arteritis

Symptoms of Pain in the Back of the Head

• Persistent dull or aching pain
• Back of the head throbbing pain that worsens with movement
• Tenderness at the skull base
• Neck stiffness or limited motion
• Pain triggered by stress, posture, or screen time
• Feeling of pressure or heaviness
• Sensitivity to light or sound (familiar in severe headache or migraine)

Is Pain in the Back of the Head Normal?

Headaches are common, but when pain becomes frequent, severe, or lasts a long time, seeking medical help is important to rule out serious issues. This helps readers understand when professional guidance is necessary.

When to Visit a Doctor

Get immediate medical help if you experience:

• Suddenly, asevere headache unlike any before
• Fever and stiff neck
• Slurred speech or weakness
• Mood changes, confusion, or agitation

If the pain continues, visit Medicover Hospitals for expert evaluation and personalized treatment.

Diagnosis for pain in back of head

To find the cause of pain in the back of the head, the doctor will ask about your pain pattern, stress levels, posture, sleep habits, past injuries, and associated symptoms like nausea or vision issues. A physical examination of the head, neck, and spine is done to check muscle tension, nerve tenderness, or neck stiffness. If needed, tests like blood pressure check, X-ray, MRI, or CT scan may be advised to rule out nerve problems, cervical spine issues, or other conditions.

Evaluation may include:

• Medical history review
• Head, neck, and spine examination
• Blood pressure check
• Imaging tests (X-ray / MRI / CT)

Treatment and Management for Pain in the Back of the Head

Mild headaches can often be managed at home, but chronic or severe headaches need medical advice. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, along with:

• Lifestyle changes
• Physical therapy
• Relaxation techniques
• Prescription medication, if needed

Treatment focuses on addressing root causes such as occipital neuralgia, joint inflammation, poor posture, or nerve compression.

Prevention Tips for Pain in the Back of the Head

• Maintain good sleep habits
• Stay hydrated
• Reduce stress
• Use ergonomic seating
• Avoid known headache triggers
• Protect your head and neck from cold

Home Remedies for Pain in the Back of the Head

• Warm or cold compress on the neck
• Gentle stretching or massage
• Relaxing essential oils
• Herbal teas
• Resting in a dark, quiet space

Lifestyle Tips for Pain in the Back of the Head

• Practice healthy posture
• Stay active
• Limit screen time
• Reduce caffeine/alcohol
• Manage stress
• Use supportive pillows while sleeping.