What are Cervicogenic headaches?
Cervicogenic headaches (CGH) are headaches created by pain referring from the neck area up to the head. The pain from a CGH can also be experienced in the side of the face.
These pains or headaches as such can be the result of an injury such as whiplash or sprained/strained neck muscles but can also come as a result of –
- Neck fractures
- Pinched nerves
- Slipped disc
- Osteoarthritis
- Dislocation
- Cancer
- Infections
What are the symptoms of Cervicogenic headache?
Pain from the neck or side of the head can be dull and continuous but may become much worse. You may experience a stabbing or sharp pain, especially when moving. Other symptoms include –
- Pain around the eye, ear, temple and forehead on one side of the head and neck.
- Blurred vision and, in some cases, swelling of the eye on the affected side.
- Stiffness in the neck.
- Pain along the top of the shoulder may refer to the arm.
What triggers a Cervicogenic Headache?
Bad posture or sharp movements can result in a CGH. As Cervicogenic Headaches are usually a result of injury, you will find different conditions that can trigger your headache – for example, long drives or sitting at the computer for long periods. In addition, if you suffer from osteoarthritis, simple changes within the weather can trigger pain.
A CG episode can last hours or days, depending on the treatment.
How to treat Cervicogenic Headaches
Over the counter pain relief can be taken, although, in many cases, we’ve seen, medications such as paracetamol do not help. You can try anti-inflammatories once your GP has assessed you.
Physical therapy is key to treating this type of headache. A physiotherapist can help you with your posture and an exercise plan which will help prevent Cervicogenic headaches from occurring.
A physiotherapist will also help figure out the reason behind your pain by illuminating factors such as injury or environment.
Are Cervicogenic Headaches dangerous?
CHD is not considered a life-threatening condition, but you do need to seek medical attention if the pain becomes chronic and pain relievers/anti-inflammatories are not working.
One-sided headaches can be a result of more sinister health issues, and you should always seek energy care if –
- You experience dizziness or vertigo.
- Your speech is blurred.
- Your eyelid is droopy, or your face has fallen on one side.
- You are experiencing double vision.
Do not hesitate to contact 999 if you have any symptoms above.
Please get in touch today for more help with neck pain or Cervicogenic Headaches.
