How can you tell the difference between a migraine and a cervicogenic headache?
The primary difference is that a migraine headache is rooted in the brain, and a cervicogenic headache is rooted in the cervical spine (neck) or base of the skull region. Some headaches are caused by eyestrain, stress, tiredness, or trauma. If you feel a headache coming on, you may be able to isolate the cause.
Is cervicogenic headache worse than migraine?
However, typical migraine symptoms occur much less frequently and to a lesser extent in cervicogenic headaches. Stiffness in the neck and a reduced range of motion are prominent symptoms in cervicogenic headaches. Turning the head or moving it in a particular way may actually make these headaches worse.
What does cervicogenic headache feel like?
Cervicogenic headache usually begins as a dull ache in the neck and radiates upward along the back of the head, almost always one-sided. Pain may also spread to the forehead, temple, and area around the eyes and/or ears. CGH is caused due to an underlying disc, joint, muscle, or nerve disorder in the neck.
How do you rule out Cervicogenic headaches?
The cervical flexion-rotation test (CFRT) is sometimes used to evaluate the severity of CGH. It involves the patient lying down and then bending the neck forward, and then rotating the head gently from left to right. If pain or resistance is experienced, it indicates limited rotation of the cervical spine.
Can a cervicogenic headache cause a stroke?
Although rare, it can be a sign of a tear in one of the neck arteries. This is a common cause of stroke, especially in people under age 45.
What is the best treatment for cervical headaches?
Treatment for cervicogenic headache should target the cause of the pain in the neck and varies depending on what works best for the individual patient. Treatments include nerve blocks, medications and physical therapy and exercise.
Why won’t my Headache go away?
And if the underlying cause — the problem in your neck — isn’t treated, your headache won’t go away. Cervicogenic headaches can be caused by injuries, arthritis, bone fractures, tumors, or infection. Your posture or falling asleep in an awkward position could cause a cervicogenic headache.
Why does my neck hurt when I have migraine?
Arthritis. Osteoarthritis in the neck area is a common cause of cervicogenic headaches and neck pain, but it can also trigger migraines. When arthritis of the neck occurs, the upper neck area is especially susceptible to deterioration of the topmost vertebrae, causing bone spurs and nerve damage.
What causes chronic headaches?
The most common trigger of chronic headaches is stress, and stress can come from just about anything including: Chronic stress can lead to other chronic conditions such as anxiety or depression, both of which can cause chronic daily headaches. Chronic stress can also cause tension in the muscles of the neck which can cause tension-type headaches.