What Causes Shooting Pain At The Back Of The Head?

Posted on Sat, 28 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 28 Jan 2017 Answered on

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

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.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (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

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