17 May 2019 Author : Raquel Gil-Gouveia Pain in the greater occipital nerve is a type of intense, debilitating headache that affects the back of the head - an area that is innervated by the occipital nerve. It affects men and women of all ages. Causes of pain in the greater occipital nerve Most of the back and top areas of the head are innervated by two large occipital nerves, one on each side of the head. Pain in the greater occipital nerve is due to irritation and inflammation of the nerve and is characterised by: No obvious structural cause Rarely being due to injury or compression of the nerve as a result of trauma, a tumour, bleeding or systemic disease. Symptoms of pain in the greater occipital nerve The pain : Is generally unilateral Is very intense and constant Begins in the neck and back of the head Can radiate to the scalp and ears May also occur near the eye in severe cases. Usually, the pain is exacerbated by : Extension and rotation of the neck The pressure on the nerves and occipital region. In some patients, greatly increased sensitivity of the scalp may prevent simple tasks such as: Washing and brushing your hair Laying your head on a pillow. Diagnosis of major occipital neuralgia The pain of major occipital neuralgia may be difficult to distinguish from other headaches in a similar location. In addition to the history and a clinical examination of the patient, it may be necessary to use the following to identify pain in the greater occipital nerve: Imaging Nerve blocks with anaesthetic. Treatment of major occipital neuralgia Symptomatic treatment of occipital neuralgia involves: Massage Rest. Depending on its cause it may also include: Medication Minimally invasive percutaneous procedures Surgery. Pharmaceutical treatment of this neuralgia requires medical supervision. Meet the neurology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
