Occipital neuralgia is a condition characterized by
chronic pain in the upper neck, back of the head, and behind
the eyes. It occurs when the occipital nerves, which run from
the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp, become
inflamed, irritated, or injured. This condition is often confused
with migraines because the symptoms, such as throbbing
pain, sensitivity to light, and scalp tenderness, can be similar.
However, occipital neuralgia specifically involves sharp,
stabbing pain that radiates from the base of the skull,
typically on one side of the head.
Treatment for occipital neuralgia typically begins with
conservative measures. These may include physical therapy,
massage, and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and manage pain. If
these methods are not effective, other treatments may
involve nerve blocks, where an anesthetic and steroid are
injected around the affected nerves to provide relief. In more
severe cases, surgical options like occipital nerve
decompression or stimulation may be considered. Each
treatment plan is tailored to the individual based on the
severity of symptoms and underlying causes of the
condition.
