Pain at the base of the skull on the left side can be caused by a variety of conditions. One possible cause is tension headaches, which are characterized by a dull, aching pain that radiates from the neck and extends to the base of the skull. These headaches often result from stress, poor posture, or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Another potential cause of pain at the base of the skull on the left side is cervicogenic headaches. These headaches occur when problems with the cervical spine, such as a misalignment or a pinched nerve, refer pain to the base of the skull. In addition to pain, individuals may also experience neck stiffness and limited range of motion.
Furthermore, occipital neuralgia can also be responsible for pain in this region. It is a condition where the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp, become inflamed or injured. This inflammation can lead to a sharp, shooting pain at the base of the skull on one side, accompanied by sensitivity to light and scalp tenderness.
Other potential causes include migraine headaches, cluster headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Migraines often present as a severe throbbing pain on one side of the head, while cluster headaches cause intense, stabbing pain that is localized around one eye. TMJ dysfunction, on the other hand, is characterized by pain in the jaw joint that can radiate to the base of the skull.
In conclusion, pain at the base of the skull on the left side can result from various conditions, including tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, occipital neuralgia, migraines, cluster headaches, or TMJ dysfunction. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What does it mean when the back of your head hurts on the left side?
Many conditions, such as dehydration, stress, migraine, and sinus congestion, can cause a headache on one side of the head. Serious causes can also include brain inflammation, severe infection, and brain cancer.
Why does the left base of my skull hurt?
Dull, throbbing, or aching pain is very common at the base of the skull and is initially observed in many conditions like high blood pressure, whiplash injuries, and accidents. These symptoms can fluctuate with movement and the position of the head.
Does pain in back of head mean stroke?
For example, a blocked carotid artery can cause a headache on the forehead, while a blockage towards the back of the brain can cause a headache towards the back of the head. This ultimately means that there is not one headache location that signals a stroke, since they can occur anywhere on the head.
Why does the back of my neck and left side of my head hurt?
Typically , people who have cervicogenic headaches experience a headache accompanied by neck pain and stiffness. Certain neck movements can provoke cervicogenic headaches. In most cases, cervicogenic headaches develop on one side of the head, starting from the back of the head and neck and radiating toward the front.
