“Key Highlights : Occipital neuralgia is a neurological disorder characterized by intermittent, piercing pains in the occipital region provoked by the irritation of the occipital nerves. Though in mild cases, the symptoms of occipital neuralgia may be eased by conservative treatments, a person should consult a doctor in case of persistent occipital pains for an accurate diagnosis and individualized therapy.”
In most cases, headaches are rather common and straightforward. However, there are several types of headaches that require specific treatment that is different from treating a regular headache. These types of headaches are usually more serious conditions since they occur due to underlying health issues. One such condition is called occipital neuralgia. The primary cause of occipital neuralgia is inflammation or irritation of the occipital nerves due to pressure or physical damage to them.
Sometimes this condition can feel like migraine headaches and tension type headaches, so it often goes misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. Being able to recognize the signs and knowing when to see an occipital neuralgia specialist can make all the difference in getting proper treatment as soon as possible. This article will go over some symptoms associated with occipital neuralgia along with causes and reasons why seeing a specialist matters.
What is occipital neuralgia?
The term «occipital neuralgia» refers to multiple neurological disorders that occur due to irritation or damage to the greater, lesser, or third occipital nerves sharing sensory functions. These cranial nerves are accountable for sensing sensations coming from the back and top of the head.
As a result of the irritation of the greater, lesser or third occipital nerves, the patient may experience intermittent shooting pain at the back of the head ranging from a few seconds to minutes. The patient may also experience dull ache and tenderness at the same spot as the severe pain, but between them.
Common Symptoms of Occipital Neuralgia
Common symptoms associated with occipital neuralgia include:
- Headache on one side or both sides of the head
- Tenderness at the occipital nerves located at the back of the head
- Pain behind your eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Scalp tenderness
- Pain occurs when moving your neck
Due to the fact that most headaches have similar symptoms it’s important to see your doctor to get a diagnosis.
When Should You See a Specialist?
While most people are unlikely to experience significant problems with their head, neck, or spine, there are a number of rather common symptoms that indicate a need to see a neurologist, a pain management or spine specialist. The majority of them are connected with persistent pain and its effects on the body.
The Pain Lasts Too Long Or Too Often
Any discomfort that cannot be reduced or eliminated by limited activity, a typical dosage of analgesics, and home treatment should be evaluated by a specialist, as it may indicate the development of a more severe condition. Intermittent or sporadic pain that usually goes away within a couple of days can be a symptom of occipital neuralgia.
Your Symptoms Keep Coming Back
Spells of sharp pain shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Even if the pain goes away for a while, it could still be irritating your occipital nerves and require treatment.
Pain in the neck along with the headaches.
Many sufferers of occipital neuralgia also have stiffness or pain in their neck as well.
If we have both occipital neuralgia and neck pain then a specialist can figure out if neck issues are causing the occipital nerve irritation or if the occipital nerves are causing the neck pain.
Daily Activities Become Harder
Pain invading work, driving, sleeping, exercising, or other activities calls for seeking medical help. It is important to find treatment as soon as possible so you don’t have to deal with chronic pain.
Home Remedies Aren’t Working
If self-care measures such as
- resting
- heat
- gentle stretching
- massage
- over-the-counter medication
- have failed to provide sufficient pain relief
Experiencing Numbness or Weakness
Although rare, numbness or feeling of heaviness in the muscles and weakness in the arms and legs are symptoms of another neurological disease, so if you are experiencing any of these side effects with your headache and neck pains, you should see a neurologist immediately.
How Is Occipital Neuralgia Diagnosed ?
Physical examination – your doctor will check your scalp and neck for tender points.
Range of motion test – he will ask you to move your neck in different directions in order to assess your range of motion
Neurological examination – this test will evaluate the function of our nerves.
The specialist can also recommend some special tests, such as:
- MRI scan
- CT scan
- X-rays
Nerve block – a diagnostic nerve block can temporarily numb the occipital nerves and relieve the pain, helping to determine if the occipital nerve is the source of pain.
Conservative treatment
- Physical therapy
- Heat treatment
- Massage
- Posture training
In addition, medications for treating depression and epilepsy are sometimes indicated for pain management too. It is critical to follow the treatment course and take the drugs that the physician prescribed.
Conclusion
Occipital neuralgia involves intermittent severe pain often impacting quality of life. This is why it’s essential to get professional help when the condition is diagnosed early enough and the right treatment is chosen.
If we have constant or severe pain at the back of our head, intermittent severe pain, or if our condition isn’t improving with conservative therapy, it’s time to pay attention – the sooner we find the right provider, the better. So always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Together, we’ll get the right treatment and help return to daily life occipital neuralgia patients enjoy every day.