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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Pain And Pressure In The Back Of The Neck?

I have been having head pain that feels like high pressure. It normally generates from the back of my neck and moves forward. When I cough or sneeze, it feels like my head may explode. Even at rest, it feels like I have a hat on that is too tight. When I rotate my head, bending my neck, there are lots of noises, but sometimes it does make my head feel better.
posted on Thu, 25 Aug 2016
Twitter Thu, 20 Jun 2019 Answered on
Twitter Sat, 22 Jun 2019 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi.

Thank you for reaching out to Health Care Magic.

The muscles that are used for coughing or for breathing are the accessory muscles of breathing. They are located in the back and in the chest. They may be located around the neck as well.

These muscles are supplied mostly by the nerve plexus known as the brachial plexus. When any accessory muscle is overused, it is possible for pain to start in the muscles or in the back. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and soreness.

Since some of these muscles are also involved in weight bearing, there is some benefit to losing weight and reducing the strain on the back.

Many people also find taking warm showers, full body massages, and stretching useful. Some people find swimming in warm pools useful as well.

In case the pain persists, over the counter painkillers may be used to help reduce the pain. In case chest pain is noticed, it is important to get an ECG to rule out heart related disease.
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What Causes Pain And Pressure In The Back Of The Neck?

Hi. Thank you for reaching out to Health Care Magic. The muscles that are used for coughing or for breathing are the accessory muscles of breathing. They are located in the back and in the chest. They may be located around the neck as well. These muscles are supplied mostly by the nerve plexus known as the brachial plexus. When any accessory muscle is overused, it is possible for pain to start in the muscles or in the back. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and soreness. Since some of these muscles are also involved in weight bearing, there is some benefit to losing weight and reducing the strain on the back. Many people also find taking warm showers, full body massages, and stretching useful. Some people find swimming in warm pools useful as well. In case the pain persists, over the counter painkillers may be used to help reduce the pain. In case chest pain is noticed, it is important to get an ECG to rule out heart related disease.