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What Causes Shooting Pain At The Back Of The Head?

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Posted on Mon, 20 Feb 2017
Question: Having pain in back of head starting lower and shooting upward. It last only about a second, quite intense. Happening sporadically over the last few days, often if I bend over or move suddenly, I have probably had it happen 15 times today. Thoughts? I'm thinking Ill see my Dr. next week but just wanted to see if any more immediate care was advised.
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Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini (29 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Cannot wait until next week,should go to ER now for immediate evaluation...

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

I understand your concern.

The pain you feel in back of head starting lower and shooting upward, happening sporadically often when you bend over or move suddenly with a blood pressure of 145/82 makes me think over 2 possible things:
1. sudden spike in blood pressure (bp) higher than 145/82
2. spondyloarthrosis

As the sporadic pain has happened about 15 times today, I think you should go to ER for immediate evaluation and a more specific treatment. You can't wait until next week.

X-ray/neurological examination/monitoring of bp and blood tests are highly recommended to determine the right diagnosis.

Meanwhile, I advise to take an over the counter analgesic like ibuprofen or mephenamic acid or paracetamol. Apply warm clothing on your neck.

Hope this helps. Wish fast recovery.
Dr.Albana
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 7300 Questions

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What Causes Shooting Pain At The Back Of The Head?

Brief Answer: Cannot wait until next week,should go to ER now for immediate evaluation... Detailed Answer: Hi XXXXXXX I understand your concern. The pain you feel in back of head starting lower and shooting upward, happening sporadically often when you bend over or move suddenly with a blood pressure of 145/82 makes me think over 2 possible things: 1. sudden spike in blood pressure (bp) higher than 145/82 2. spondyloarthrosis As the sporadic pain has happened about 15 times today, I think you should go to ER for immediate evaluation and a more specific treatment. You can't wait until next week. X-ray/neurological examination/monitoring of bp and blood tests are highly recommended to determine the right diagnosis. Meanwhile, I advise to take an over the counter analgesic like ibuprofen or mephenamic acid or paracetamol. Apply warm clothing on your neck. Hope this helps. Wish fast recovery. Dr.Albana