Headache Behind the Head: Causes and Care

Pain at the back of the head may follow a long period at a desk, awkward sleep position, heavy lifting, or tight neck and shoulder muscles. It can spread upward from the neck or feel tender over the scalp. Migraine may be felt at the back as well as the front and may include nausea or light sensitivity. A viral illness can cause headache with fever, tiredness, cough, or sore throat; dehydration can cause thirst, dark urine, dizziness, or reduced urination. The symptom alone cannot identify one condition.

Change position, support your back, and take gentle movement breaks rather than holding your neck still for long periods. Try warmth over tense neck muscles or a cool pack wrapped in cloth over the painful area. Drink fluids and rest, especially after heat exposure or poor sleep. If you take an over-the-counter pain reliever, check that it is safe for you and follow the package directions. Avoid forceful neck manipulation. Write down onset, posture, injury, fever, neurological symptoms, and what improves or worsens the pain.

Call emergency services for a sudden severe headache, weakness, numbness, confusion, collapse, seizure, trouble speaking, or difficulty walking. Get urgent medical help for a headache with fever and stiff neck, repeated vomiting, a new vision problem, or pain after a head injury. Arrange a routine appointment if the headache persists, keeps recurring, wakes you from sleep, or is becoming more difficult to control.

Could my neck, posture, sleep, or medicines be contributing? Do I need an examination of my nerves, eyes, or neck? What exercises are safe? How often can I use pain relief?