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Cervicogenic headache, as the name suggests, originates from the neck. It's a type of headache caused by problems in the cervical spine, the area between the base of the skull and the shoulders. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are often unilateral (affecting only one side of the head) and tend to worsen with neck movement. This blog is a comprehensive guide that features details about its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Synopsis
Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headache
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Unilateral pain: The pain usually starts in the neck or shoulder and spreads to one side of the head.
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Neck stiffness: Difficulty turning or tilting the head.
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Tenderness: The neck muscles may be tender to the touch.
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Headaches: The headaches may be throbbing, aching, or a combination of both.
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Visual disturbances: Blurred vision or double vision might occur.
Consult our neurologist in Jaipur if you are experiencing cervicogenic headache symptoms.
Causes of Cervicogenic Headache
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Neck injury: A whiplash injury or other neck trauma can lead to cervicogenic headaches.
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Poor posture: Poor posture can strain the neck muscles and contribute to headaches.
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Degenerative changes: Age-related changes in the cervical spine, such as arthritis, can cause pain and inflammation.
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Muscle tension: Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Treatment for Cervicogenic Headache
Here are a few cervical headache treatment options:
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Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve neck mobility, strengthen neck muscles, and reduce pain.
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Massage therapy: Massaging the neck and shoulders can help relieve muscle tension and pain.
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Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can minimise pain and reduce inflammation.
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Heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can offer temporary relief.
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Chiropractic care: Chiropractic adjustments can help in aligning the spine and reduce pain.
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Injections: In severe cases, injections of corticosteroids or nerve blocks may be used to manage pain.
If you are experiencing frequent or severe headaches, it's important to consult with a neurology hospital in Jaipur to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate cervicogenic headache treatment.
Prevention Tips
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Maintain good posture: Sit and stand up straight to avoid straining your neck muscles.
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Take breaks: If you have a sedentary job and lifestyle, take regular breaks to stretch and move around.
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Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help strengthen your neck muscles and improve overall health.
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Manage stress: Stress can contribute to muscle tension and headaches. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
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Avoid excessive screen time: Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, and tablets can strain your neck muscles.
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Ergonomic setup: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically set up to minimize strain on your neck and shoulders.
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Sleep on a supportive pillow: A good pillow can help maintain proper neck alignment while sleeping.
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Avoid sleeping on your stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can put undue strain on your neck.
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Limit alcohol and caffeine: Excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine can contribute to headaches.
See a healthcare professional: If you are experiencing frequent or severe headaches, consult with a doctor to rule out other underlying conditions.
Conclusion
By following these tips and seeking appropriate treatment, you can effectively manage cervicogenic headaches and improve your quality of life. Book an appointment with our expert doctors in Jaipur for diagnosis and treatment. You can also explore and bookmark our blog page to read the latest healthcare blogs.
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